MINSK, 24 August (BelTA) – Belarus managed to endure in the complicated period of 2020, peace and order was preserved, however, now is not the time to relax yet. Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko made the statement as he presented state awards to those, who were at the forefront in those difficult times, BelTA has learned.
In recognition of exemplary execution of their duties, significant achievements in the course of military service, and high professionalism Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko awarded three dozens of military personnel and representatives of defense, security, and law enforcement bodies: the Defense Ministry, the Internal Affairs Ministry, the State Border Committee, the State Security Committee, and the President's Security Service. A number of civilians, who demonstrated resolve and bravery in the most complicated conditions in the course of ensuring security and order in the country in August 2020 and autumn 2020, were also awarded. However, the list of awardees is much larger. The relevant presidential decree specifies hundreds of names. The prime minister and the state secretary of the Security Council will present well-deserved awards to these people soon upon the president's instructions.
Aleksandr Lukashenko said: “We have already come to realize what could have happened to us. We did virtually the impossible back then. They practiced on us. But it was a training session, a prelude ahead of the events going on in the world now and in particular in Ukraine. We've endured, this is why today we live in a peaceful country.”
The president pointed out that now is not the time to relax yet, everything is just starting: “That was only a rehearsal, a training session, as I've said, a prelude to the main events. Everything is only starting. We have no time to relax.”
Aleksandr Lukashenko drew attention to the complicated situation in the region and the world, including around Belarus. “As you can see, Poland and the Baltic states have become training areas for regular exercises of NATO troops. Previously neutral Sweden and Finland are in a hurry to join NATO, one can say, they have virtually joined it. For some reason they couldn't stay put. They should have kept quiet and silent,” he said.
Aleksandr Lukashenko remarked that massive hybrid aggression against the Belarusian state continues unabated. “On the part of not even the so-called self-exiled opposition but the rebels, who quickly fled our country. Essentially these people represent one of the cornerstones of the policy of Washington and Brussels in our area and more than that. And it is our duty to the current generation and future ones to make conclusions from it and use every means to preserve the country,” the Belarusian leader stated. “And we will preserve it whatever the cost. It is not only my task but yours, too. People strongly trust us and know that we will always come to their aid. We will secure calm and peaceful life for our people, will protect the country from external and internal threats.”
Addressing participants of the award ceremony, Aleksandr Lukashenko thanked them for impeccable service and reliability. He wished them new accomplishments in their line of work and good health to them, to their friends and families.
