A. Lukashenka considers it important to surround every representative of the generation of victors with care

May 6, Minsk / Alina Grishkevich - BELTA /. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko considers it important to surround every representative of the generation of victors, who defended their native land from enemies with weapons in their hands, with attention and care. The head of state stated this today during the awarding of state decorations, according to a BELTA correspondent. The President noted that a good tradition has been established to present high awards to the best people of the country who have achieved significant success in various fields of activity on the eve of important state holidays. "I hope that today's meeting will be doubly memorable for you, as it took place on the eve of such a glorious historical date as Victory Day," Alexander Lukashenko said, addressing the awardees. "For our people, it is of fateful significance." Years, decades pass, but May 9, 1945, does not become a distant past, it does not leave the memory of people of different generations. And today, the greatness of the historical feat of the Soviet people, who saved not only their homeland but all of humanity from fascist enslavement, is realized even more clearly. Unfortunately, every year there are fewer and fewer participants in those legendary events, and therefore it is so important to surround them with care. "With a special sense of gratitude and pride, I welcome these heroic people. It is they whom we honor and congratulate these May days. Dear veterans, thank you for not letting our people be brought to their knees. You have proven that no enemy can break, intimidate, or defeat us," the President emphasized. "We will never forget that it was you, scorched by the terrible fire of war, who provided the current economic and spiritual basis for the development of Belarus." The head of state noted that, looking back at the past and paying tribute to all those who died for the Motherland, one especially realizes the simple truth: what a great blessing it is to have peace and tranquility in one's native land. A large group of veterans received awards from the President today. In addition, among the awardees are representatives of various sectors of the national economy: builders, designers, managers, and specialists who participated in the construction of the unique cultural and sports complex "Minsk-Arena," which adorns the capital. Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that conscientious, selfless labor is the main resource of Belarus. Thanks to the professional skills and high civic responsibility of construction workers and specialists in the national economy, the most complex tasks are successfully solved in all spheres of society's life, for example, giving a new look to the Belarusian capital, forming an attractive image for investors, and building magnificent facilities for international events. As the head of state noted, one of these priority areas is the preparation of Minsk for the 2014 Ice Hockey World Championship. Congratulating the awardees, Alexander Lukashenko expressed hope that the worthy recognition of their energy and talent will become a good incentive for new successes for the benefit of their native Belarus. -0-