Photo report: Novopolotsk celebrated its 65th anniversary

Along with the residents of Novopolotsk, representatives of ministries and departments, regional and city authorities, and public associations led the procession. The city residents warmly welcomed with applause the Chairperson of the Council of the Republic Natalya Kochanova, who was the head of the city executive committee and made a great contribution to the development of the oil city.

In a significant year for Novopolotsk, the city proudly bears the title of the Youth Capital of Belarus. Active youth carried the city's flag along the central street of Novopolotsk to the sounds of a brass band and the beat of drums from charming drum majors. Little Novopolotsk residents, like bright sunbeams, shone with happy smiles.

Guests of the celebration took a unique excursion through history, from the first construction tent to the present day. The festive procession included representatives of the construction organization that stood at the origins of Novopolotsk's development – Trust No. 16 – and enterprises already known far beyond the country's borders, such as the Naftan and Polimir plants. Industrialists, doctors, teachers, labor veterans, young sports and art stars, honorary citizens of Novopolotsk, and guests from twin cities received their share of greetings from colleagues, friends, and acquaintances who lined up in a living corridor along the route of the procession, taking videos and photos on their phones.

The festive procession moved to Builders' Square, where a vibrant concert featuring creative groups from the city was held for guests and participants of the celebration.

"I love this city very much. Both Polotsk and Novopolotsk are my hometowns. I grew up with it, we are almost the same age. I always feel a sense of homeland, a sense of home, warmth in my soul. Every time I come here, I feel like I am on my native land. I feel only love and gratitude to everyone who lives and works here, who continues the good and glorious traditions of the city," said Natalya Kochanova.

She noted that on such a holiday, the city residents and guests have a wonderful mood. "Novopolotsk always celebrates its birthday widely and on a grand scale. Today, the people of Novopolotsk feel a special pride in their city, for what they have achieved in such a short period from a historical perspective – 65 years. It would seem like not so much, but today Novopolotsk is an industrial, educational, and cultural center of our country and the Vitebsk region. We are grateful to the people of Novopolotsk for what they do for their city, for the country's economy. We bow low to all those who stood at the origins of this city's formation and the construction of the oil refinery – these are our first builders, veterans, whom the city and the country rightly take pride in. They performed a labor feat, building such a beautiful city and the largest petrochemical complex in Europe. Glory to our workers, to the city, may it grow with new residents of Novopolotsk, who will just as surely pass on these glorious traditions from generation to generation," emphasized the Chairperson of the Council of the Republic.

"BELTA"