Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 16 March (BelTA) - Internal troops play an important role even in peaceful time, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said when he visited military unit No. 5448 in Minsk in the run-up to the 100^th anniversary of the internal troops of the Interior Ministry on 16 March, BelTA informs.

“They play a great role in maintaining peace. I appreciate it very much, and I often say, even insist, that internal troops are especially important in cities, in Minsk, for example, where there are many different people. It is also important that people, especially mothers with little children, can feel safe when they go for a walk. Internal troops play a big role even in peaceful time,” the president said.

Alexander Lukashenko remarked that his visit to the military unit of internal troops is, first of all, timed to the forthcoming anniversary. He stressed that since establishment the internal troops have been developing and acquiring various functions. “These troops are doing their best for the maintenance of public order in our country in peaceful time. These troops are almost always in combat readiness, just like border services and other military units. This service is an honor. These guys and their parents think so. Together with policemen they ensure the internal security of our state. They maintain public order, prevent crimes, help local police officers and investigators punish criminals,” the Belarusian leader said.

The head of state congratulated soldiers on their professional holiday and thanked them for a big role they are playing in the society. “They are doing it in a rather calm and peaceful society. But if something happens, they will have to ensure the internal security of, God forbid, a country at war. They are trained this way,” the head of state concluded.