MINSK, 28 June (BelTA) - Despite the external pressure, Belarus and Russia are pressing forward, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said in his video address to the participants of the 11th Forum of the Regions of Belarus and Russia, BelTA has learned.
"Despite the external pressure, Belarus and Russia are pressing forward, developing the Union State integration and strengthening humanitarian ties," Aleksandr Lukashenko said.
The head of state noted that it is symbolic that the current meeting is taking place in the year of the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Belarus from the Nazi invaders. "These days we are remembering those who gave their lives for our beloved Belarus. We thank the Soviet soldiers, our heroes, for the Victory and the opportunity to develop and make plans for the future. One of the main lessons that we learned from that terrible war is that the fraternal peoples must always be together, stand shoulder to shoulder tackling emerging challenges defending statehood, their traditions and values. Only together can we ensure the security and well-being of our people," the Belarusian leader stressed.