The delegation of the Vitebsk region took part in the republican excursion project

A journey through time with a historical and patriotic focus was undertaken by a delegation from the Vitebsk region during their visit to the Palace of Independence and the Museum of Modern Belarusian Statehood in Minsk.

Despite the fact that the Palace of Independence appeared later than the attributes of national statehood, it has also become a symbol of our sovereign republic. The most important political events, not only in the country but also in the world, have taken place within the walls of the President's residence, including the meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council, the summit of CIS heads of state, the honoring of Belarusian Olympians, and the inauguration of the head of state. Moreover, the palace has become a true cultural asset for the entire nation, which is why it is open for visits by personal order of the Belarusian leader. For the first time, a delegation from the Vitebsk region, comprising the best representatives of UP "Vitebskoblgaz," joined such an excursion project.

Almost all 36 representatives from our region entered the doors behind which fateful decisions are made for the first time. However, Pyotr Shershen, General Director of UP "Vitebskoblgaz," is already familiar with the interior of these historic walls – in one of the ceremonial halls last October, the head of state awarded him the honorary title "Honored Energy Worker of the Republic of Belarus."

The delegation from our region had the opportunity to sit at the round peace table – the one at which the "Normandy Four" signed crucial documents after the Minsk negotiations last February – as well as try out the chairs in the President's working meeting rooms. As the tour participants moved from room to room, familiar from official newsreels, they were impressed by the layout, harmony, and functionality of the spaces.

— Today, such a strategic facility as the Palace of Independence is one of the most impressive architectural structures, which has become a kind of official calling card of our country. In conjunction with the State Flag Square, it emphasizes the immutability of Belarusian statehood and independence, — noted Pyotr Shershen.

Кsignificant events and achievements of the young, yet rich in traditions, republic were experienced by Vitebsk residents during their visit to the Museum of Modern Belarusian Statehood. The main focus of the exhibition is dedicated to the processes of the republic's formation, constitutional reforms, the establishment of state symbols, and the functioning of state administration bodies. Among the exhibits are the achievements of our compatriots in industry, agriculture, education, science, medicine, culture, sports, and international relations.

— For guests of the country, as well as for its residents, such a journey through time is a good opportunity to learn more about the history of our young State, to virtually visit different parts of the country, — stated **Irina Kapshul, chief specialist of the main department of ideological work, culture, and youth affairs of the regional executive committee**, who participated in the delegation from the region, emphasizing the importance of the excursion project in fostering citizenship and patriotism among the region's residents.

By the way, the baton of visitors to these same significant places will be passed to a delegation from Novopolotsk next time.

Olga BULAVKA, "Vitebskiye Vesti". Photos from the archive of UP "Vitebskoblgaz".