A. Lukashenko: "Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk" widely opens its doors for cultural dialogue

July 8, BELTA correspondent/. The Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk largely determines the development paths of modern culture. This was stated by President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko on July 8 at the opening of the XX International Festival of Arts "Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk", BELTA was informed by the press service of the Belarusian leader.

"20 years ago, a new bright star appeared in the sky over our Belarus, its name being "Slavianski Bazaar". Having originated as a joint initiative of Belarus, Russia and Ukraine, this wonderful celebration of creativity soon crossed borders, becoming an event of global scale. Representatives of all generations and all continents of the Earth have visited here," the head of state emphasized.

"Perhaps many have already forgotten what a difficult path the festival had to go through. After all, there was a time when the question was: "To be or not to be "Slavianski Bazaar"?". They said that for commercial "success" it should be moved to the shore of a warm sea," Alexander Lukashenko recalled.

"Then we firmly said: "No, the festival must take place. And it must be on Belarusian land. The native home of this festival should be Belarusian Vitebsk - the cradle of Slavic civilization," the President noted. - Today, we can confidently state that the large-scale forum in Vitebsk largely determines the development paths of modern culture. Not only the biggest stars of world art perform here. It is even more gratifying that hundreds of young artists have confidently stepped from the stage of this amphitheater towards real fame and recognition."

During the festival days, Belarus generously opens its soul to its participants and guests, willingly sharing its history, rich culture, and most importantly, its kindness and hospitality. "We are glad to welcome not only the spectators in this hall but also the audience of millions at their television screens. People in different corners of the planet have the opportunity to get to know and love the Belarusian land better, to become our sincere friends," said Alexander Lukashenko.
 
"I often ask myself: 'Why is our 'Slavianski Bazaar' so popular, why is it so valued and loved all over the world?'. I think, first and foremost, because it sets no artificial barriers for performers, it gives everyone complete creative freedom. It allows them to showcase the brightest facets of their talent. Respect for the national distinctiveness of any people reigns here. It is kind, responsive, our festival, and it always becomes a cozy home for artists and spectators. That's precisely why it is loved," believes the head of state.

According to him, "Slavianski Bazaar" has a very good reputation. "No matter what passions flare up behind the scenes, no matter what tastes clash, the assessments have always been honest and objective. The festival has never become an arena for scandals and backroom struggles. It will always be this way. Everything here is sincere and open. This is the well-deserved image of our festival," is convinced the Belarusian leader.

"It is absolutely independent of political conjuncture. From the first day of its existence, it has remained true to its main goal – to widely open its doors for an interested dialogue of cultures and civilizations. Not only artists meet in Vitebsk, but also politicians, diplomats, and public figures – the language of art, in this case, requires no translation," emphasized the President.

The Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk successfully fulfills the mission of preserving the common cultural space of the Slavic peoples, stated Alexander Lukashenko. The head of state emphasized: "Our forum successfully fulfills the mission of preserving the common cultural space of the Slavic peoples. It is not by chance that it originated on Belarusian land, which is one of the oldest spiritual centers of Slavdom."

Alexander Lukashenko has no doubt that as it "matures" and improves, our beloved festival will preserve its traditions and unique charm, and continue to gain momentum. Through new art forms and modern artistic trends, it will certainly broaden its horizons and further increase its scale.

"Of course, our immense love for this creative forum and its state support will remain unchanged. After all, it is rightfully a hallmark of sovereign and independent Belarus," the President noted.

He emphasized that the presentation of the special award "Through Art – to Peace and Understanding" has become a good festival tradition. In the current anniversary year, it was awarded to the renowned composer, People's Artist of the USSR, Igor Mikhailovich Luchenok, to whom the President presented the award.
 
The Head of State expressed words of gratitude to the maestro for his talent and selfless dedication to art.

Alexander Lukashenko also thanked everyone who has been working for the festival for two decades and gives us a unique world of beauty every year.

The President emphasized: "The best holiday is the one that stays with you forever. May the anniversary 'Slavianski Bazaar' be exactly that, so that everyone wants to return to Vitebsk again and again. I wish the participants successful performances, thunderous applause, and full halls, and to all of us – vivid impressions and a great mood." -0-