MP: Belarus ready to celebrate Independence Day on large scale

Belarus is preparing to celebrate Independence Day, and in the year of the 80th anniversary of the country’s liberation from the Nazi invaders, the festivities will be especially large-scale. Belarusian servicemen, in particular, have already started preparing for a military parade, which is reported to unite more than 6,000 military personnel and about 250 units of military equipment. The Deputy Chairman of the Standing Committee of the House of Representatives of the National Assembly on International Affairs, Oleg Gaidukevich, has told Alfa Radio why it is important to pay special attention to such events.

The MP noted that the post-Soviet states usually celebrate Independence Day on the day of their withdrawal from the USSR, but Belarus has chosen the date that is sacred for all Belarusians: the day of Minsk’s liberation from Nazi invaders.

“Sovereignty is sacred for us,” Mr. Gaidukevich stressed. “We see what happens to countries when they lose their independence. Look at Ukraine. Blood is being shed, there is a war, the country is being used as anyone wants. Our President Aleksandr Lukashenko has often said that sovereignty stands high, but this high price needs to be paid so that children can live in safety. Therefore, Independence Day should be celebrated! People should be proud of their country. This is the main holiday of any state. We are ready to celebrate Independence Day on a large scale, strongly and proudly.”