MINSK, 20 March (BelTA) – I am okay with a Ukrainian singer representing Belarus at the Eurovision Song Contest, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said during the meeting with creative youth at the Belarusian State Youth Theater on 20 March, BelTA informs.
“There is nothing bad in it, especially when this is a Russian or Ukrainian person,” Alexander Lukashenko said. “It is not banned. Russian or Ukrainian guys can represent Belarus, Belarusians can represent other countries.”
“You know, I am an internationalist and a patriot just like young people. In my opinion, the fact that Belarus will be represented by a Ukrainian guy is good for the state, especially for your industry because he can impress many people,” he continued. “Let's agree that he is a talented guy and he objectively won. Is this the Eurovision format? Absolutely. Besides, he is a popular singer, he is famous in Russia and Ukraine. I hope that these countries will give us 12 points. I don't see anything wrong here.”
According to Alexander Lukashenko, he was disappointed that many people were against this Eurovision entry. In this regard, the president remarked that Eurovision is a completion. “We would be happy if our singers were at the same level,” he added.
The head of state said that many years ago he supported Belarus' participation in the Eurovision Song Contest. “Back then I said that we should participate because the world should see us. Europeans, the entire world are watching. Belarus will benefit from the participation in this event,” the president remarked.
He believes that even if a singer does not win the contest it is an excellent opportunity to make a statement. “By the way, this guy did not ask for money, but we will support him because he will represent our country,” the head of state said.
At the same time, it is important for a Belarusian entry to bring the contest to Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko believes.
