The flame relay of the II European Games was carried through the bluest-eyed corner of Belarus
The journalist of BELTA Vladimir Matveev was honored to carry the flame of the II European Games among the torchbearers. "The 'Flame of Peace' relay allows residents of various corners of the country to literally touch and feel their involvement in holding the II European Games. This is a very important unifying factor. And, of course, fire is an ancient symbol of high achievement sports. Athletes, foreign guests from many countries will come to Belarus. And we all together must meet them with the same burning hearts as this fire, so that they feel not only the intensity of the competition, but also the warmth and hospitality of the Belarusian people," said the journalist.
Answering the question about how he felt in the role of a torchbearer, Vladimir Matveev admitted: "Perhaps this experience will be one of the most unforgettable not only in my career, but also in my life. Of course, I was worried that everything would go smoothly, I tried not to let down our team and the organizers."
The "Flame of Peace" relay in Braslav also included the deputy chief physician for medical affairs, head of the inter-district medical and consultative center for surgery of the Braslav Central District Hospital Yevgeny Matusevich, and arranger, composer, laureate of the National Music Award Svyatoslav Poznyak as torchbearers. The flame was carried through the most significant places of the city from the pier of the boat station near the main city beach to the historical center – the legendary Zamkovaya Gora (Castle Hill). A colorful theatrical performance unfolded here, telling about the origin of Braslav. The "Flame of Peace" also visited Mount Mayak – the most famous observation point of the Braslav Lakes, offering truly unique views of the region's main natural wealth. Part of the route of the torch relay was covered across Lake Drivyaty, accompanied by sailboats.
"The II European Games are a landmark event that unites districts, cities, countries, even continents. It is a true celebration of kindness, peace, and sport," said Sviatoslav Pozniak. As noted by Yevgeny Matusevich, he is filled with pride for Belarus, that the country is hosting such a large-scale forum. "It is doubly pleasant that part of the 'Flame of Peace' torch relay passes through the territory of the Braslav district and I was fortunate enough to participate in it. On behalf of all Braslav residents, I want to wish our athletes victory in the competitions. We will cheer for them," said Yevgeny Matusevich and invited guests of the II European Games to relax at the Braslav Lakes.
During the ceremony of sealing the fire in the lamp, the torchbearers were welcomed by the Chairman of the Braslav District Executive Committee, Alexander Bodanin. "A truly beautiful and significant event is taking place on our land. I hope this 'Flame of Peace' will allow our team to take high places at the II European Games," he said.
The "Flame of Peace" torch relay is currently passing through the Vitebsk region. Before Braslav, the fire had already visited Vitebsk, Polotsk, and Novopolotsk. Ahead are the Yelnya landscape reserve, Glubokoye, Berezinsky Biosphere Reserve, and Orsha. The route of the torch relay is designed to maximally demonstrate the uniqueness of the region, its main attractions, natural features, and important sites. The flame of the II European Games will travel through the region until May 29, and then it will move to the Mogilev region.