Opinions & Interviews

VITEBSK, 13 July (BelTA) – The fact that representatives of many countries participate in the Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk testifies not only to the festival’s popularity but also to the growing international respect for Belarus. Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko made the statement during the solemn opening ceremony of the 26^th international art festival Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk on 13 July, BelTA has learned.

The head of state said that Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk is a celebration of art and friendship. The festival is as old as the sovereign and independent country of Belarus. Over the years the festival has become a genuine pearl of the international festival movement and a hallmark of the country.

Alexander Lukashenko said: “The ancient city of Vitebsk, which is unofficially recognized as our cultural capital city, has welcomed artistic delegations from 72 countries over the course of 25 years. Today we once again welcome all nations. We gladly welcome participants and fans of the festival from Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America. The fact vividly testifies not only to the festival’s popularity but to the growing respect for Belarus in the community of nations.”

This year the festival’s guests of honor include the president of Moldova, the state secretary of Kazakhstan, heads of diplomatic missions of a number of countries. “Art knows no borders. It brings nations, souls, and hearts closer to each other. Multiple friends from various parts of the globe meet under the summer sky in Vitebsk. It is for this reason that the star of the Slavianski Bazaar was lit and has been shining for over 25 years already. Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk embodies the cordiality, kindness, and supreme hospitality of the Belarusians,” said the head of state.