Lukashenko: Belarusian state symbols are inspired by ideas of national dignity, genuine democracy

The Belarusian state symbols are inspired by the ideas of national dignity and genuine democracy, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said at a ceremony to honor the state symbols on the Day of the State Flag, the State Emblem and the National Anthem in Minsk on 12 May, BelTA has learned. The Belarusian president noted that in transitional times, people often abandon symbols that expressed the ideas and values of the previous social and political system. "But this was not our way. We carefully preserve the connection between generations, continue the traditions of our ancestors, and are proud of our history. It has many heroic pages in it. We have never flinched; we have never changed the policy that we are pursuing today. Both then and now, we have been faithful to the traditions of the past. We are especially proud that the Belarusian state symbols embody the unparalleled strength of spirit and contribution of our people to the Great Victory over the Nazism. They also reflect the labor feat of our fathers and grandfathers, who rebuilt the country on the principles of social equality and justice," Aleksandr Lukashenko said. The modern state flag, emblem and anthem are also symbols of sporting, creative and labor victories in the history of sovereign Belarus. The flag of Belarus was raised by polar scientists in Antarctica, paratroopers - at the North Pole, climbers - on Everest. "The flag has been flown to space three times. First with Oleg Novitsky, a native of Belarus. And most recently - with the first Belarusian cosmonaut, Hero of Belarus Marina Vasilevskaya," the president said. "Today, symbolism not only unites. It is a source of confidence and inner strength. Our emblem, flag and anthem, as well as the policy are inspired by the ideas of national dignity and genuine democracy," the Belarusian leader said. Aleksandr Lukashenko noted that in various spheres, the state symbols have become part of life and achievements of the Belarusian people. For example, soon schools will hold solemn graduation ceremonies: to the sounds of the anthem, tens of thousands of graduates will take their first steps into an independent life. Farmers have completed the planting campaign. The harvesting campaign is ahead, during which thousands of Belarusian harvesters will go into fields. Under their dear flag, farmers will perform their labor feat. Hundreds of couples are preparing to enter into a legal marriage - the official seal will seal the vows of love and fidelity of new families. The Belarusian emblem and flag can be seen in the windows of residential buildings and cars more often. On 3 July, the Independence Day, which this year will also mark the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Belarus, millions of compatriots will fill the squares of cities and villages to sing the anthem together. "People are proud to be Belarusians. This is the national unity. The unity, which is sealed by the strong memory of the heroic feat of our grandfathers and great-grandfathers in the Great Patriotic War, patriotism, creative work and the desire for peace. The unity, which is symbolized by the State Flag, the State Emblem and the National Anthem of the Republic of Belarus. The unity that we must keep in order to preserve our country. Because time has chosen us!" the president stressed.