President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko presented the special award "Through Art - to Peace and Mutual Understanding" to People's Artist of the USSR Edita Piekha

The award ceremony took place during the opening of the XXII International Arts Festival "Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk," reports a BELTA correspondent.

As the head of state noted, laureates of this award are great artists who have made a significant contribution to strengthening cultural cooperation between peoples.

Edita Piekha cordially thanked the President of Belarus. "I have been performing on stage for 56 years and have repeatedly performed in cities of Belarus. I am pleased that on this day at the festival in Vitebsk, I have been honored with such a great and important honor for me. Thank you, sincerely thank you!" said the renowned artist beloved by many generations.

From the main stage of "Slavianski Bazaar," Edita Piekha admitted that today's event is very emotional for her. "I was so nervous that I twisted my ankle on the way. It's all the excitement. Yes, it's not every day that the president presents an award, and it's not every day that you kiss the president," the singer admitted with humor.

The special award "Through Art – To Peace and Mutual Understanding" is presented to cultural and art figures, creative groups, and organizations that have made a significant contribution to strengthening international cultural cooperation, promoting achievements and examples of world artistic culture based on humanistic ideals and values. Since 2009, the names of the recipients of the special award have been immortalized on the Alley of Stars.