Opinions & Interviews

Opinion: Interfaith harmony in Belarus is achieved through continuous dialogue

MINSK, 26 February (BelTA) – Interfaith harmony in Belarus is a result of a continuous long-standing dialogue, Head of the Main State Legal Directorate of the Belarus President Administration Yevgeny Kovalenko said on the sidelines of the round-table session “Interfaith harmony as a crucial factor of maintaining public peace and stability”. The event was dedicated to the Year of People's Unity and was held at the President Hotel in Minsk, BelTA has learned.

“For many centuries Belarus has been known for its hospitality, benevolence and, of course, interfaith harmony. Belarus is a place where western and eastern cultures converge; thus, we remain an island of stability and civil accord, and also a donor of regional security. The interaction between the state and the public is underpinned by legal and moral norms arising from our religions; they ensure lawful behavior in everyday life in relation to other people and the state. We cherish our history and those who fought for our peaceful life and the future of our children, regardless of the religion they professed,” Yevgeny Kovalenko said.

According to him, interfaith harmony, which is the theme of the round-table session, is a result of a continuous long-standing dialogue. “Therefore, working within the legal framework, in accordance with the principles of morality and ethics, the tenets of our religions, we are building our common rule of law. I wish you further success in your work, constructive dialogue both today and in your daily activities. I am sure that your work will help us move further towards a better state, society, and interfaith harmony,” he said.

Taking part in the meeting are representatives of various religions, government agencies, the academic community and educational institutions, public associations, members of the Council of the Republic and the House of Representatives. The event is meant to discuss interaction between the church and the state and the ways this communication can benefit Belarusian people. The participants of the meeting discuss the role of religious organizations and public associations in the prevention of offenses, alcoholism, drug addiction and other social ills, re-socialization of convicts, work with young people, and efforts to counter religious extremism. The forum is organized by the Investigative Committee and the Institute for Advanced Training and Retraining of the Investigative Committee.

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