Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 15 February (BelTA) – Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has sent an address to Soviet internationalist soldiers, veterans of the war in Afghanistan on the occasion of the anniversary of the Soviet troops’ withdrawal from Afghanistan, BelTA learned from the press service of the Belarusian leader.

“On this anniversary please accept my sincere gratitude for the courage and bravery displayed in the hotspots of the planet. We remember the sons of Belarus who reaffirmed their loyalty to duty at the cost of their lives, mourn together with their parents, widows, and children,” the address reads.

The head of state remarked that over the years people realized the importance of those events. “In modern history you were the first to start a war on international terrorism,” Alexander Lukashenko said.

“Soviet internationalist soldiers have an active civil position and work hard for the benefit of Belarus today. We are grateful to you because just like the veterans of the Great Patriotic War you continue to nurture the spirit of genuine patriotism among young people,” the President stressed.