Opinions & Interviews

The Great Patriotic War History Museum in Minsk fosters the development of the national identity. The character of any nation is formed during the times of hardships. Such places where young people come are essential to the development of the national identity, Francis Etienne said. He noted that the French people are also aware of the importance of the victory over the Nazi invaders.

Ambassador of France to Tajikistan Didier Leroy agreed with his counterpart. “I grew up in a family whose members fought against fascism. The French respect the Soviet people and are grateful to them for the victory,” he said.

For his part, Ambassador of France to Uzbekistan Jacques-Henry Heuls noted that the Belarusian people are close to the EU citizens in spirit. “Of course, Belarus is Europe. The Belarusian people are spiritually close to us. For example, today we have visited the Dudutki museum. We also have folklore and folk crafts. But most of all I liked the Belarusian women – they are amazingly beautiful,” the ambassador said.

The diplomat also praised the architecture of the Minsk city. “Frankly speaking, I expected to see a different picture. What I saw were beautiful Stalin’s Empire style buildings, cozy boulevards, and monumental avenues – Minsk turned out to be a very interesting city,” Jacques-Henry Heuls added.

As it was reported, the French Foreign Ministry convened its ambassadors in the CIS states and Georgia in Minsk for the regional meeting.