Lukashenko presented Sultan of Oman with Papasha submachine gun and received Khanjar in turn
President of Belarus Aleksandr Lukashenko and Sultan of Oman Haitham bin Tariq Al Said have exchanged gifts during the Belarusian leader’s working visit: the President presented the Sultan with a Slutsk sash and a Shpagin submachine gun, BelTA reports
Long wide sashes with a beautiful pattern and complex weaving of precious threads became widespread in the Belarusian lands back in the 16th century. They were considered a sign of noble origin, indicating the owner’s wealth. Earlier, following the President’s order, the unique craft was revived in the republic.
As for the legendary Shpagin submachine gun, this weapon played a role in the liberation of Belarus from the Nazi invaders and, in general, in the approach of Victory in the Great Patriotic War. The PPSh gun was the main weapon of the infantry; soldiers and partisans called it respectfully: Papasha [Daddy].
In turn, the Sultan presented the Belarusian leader with a traditional Omani Khanjar dagger. A curved dagger is a must-have item of the traditional costume of the Arabs of Oman, it is the country’s national symbol.
On Sunday evening, an official reception in honour of the President of Belarus was also held in Muscat on behalf of the Sultan. The state leaders continued their communication that began in the morning during the negotiations.
