Traditions, values and people, the country's patriots, are the pillars of Belarus' independence, Nikolai Shchekin, Head of the Political and Economic Sociology Center at the Sociology Institute of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus (NASB), told BelTA.
“3 July is a special day for the Belarusian people. It reminds us of a difficult way that was passed in pursuit of freedom of the native land. Belarus' independence was hard fought and earned. Looking back we see that we have deserved it and could manage it wisely, like Belarusians, by building our one-and-only social and economic development model,” Nikolai Shchekin said.
No one can deny the achievements of the Republic of Belarus, the scholar emphasized. “Our people have retained and multiplied scientific, educational and industrial potential, built unique spiritual, political and manufacturing centers in the country. Belarusian brands are known all over the world, Belarusian institutions and cultural facilities are easily recognizable. These are Minsk Tractor Works, BelAZ, Spartak confectionery, Babushkina Krynka, Palace of the Republic, National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, National Library, Belarusian State Museum of the Great Patriotic War History, National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theater, Belarusian State University and many more,” the scientist said.
“Over the years of independence Belarus has come up with unique humanitaristics (philosophy, history, sociology, pedagogy, etc.) that helped create the country's new scientific capacities and shape the backbone of the Belarusian state – ideology and the country's own vision of its dynamic development. This allows analyzing the past and understanding the present,” Nikolai Shchekin said.
“It is for a reason that Belarus will mark the Year of Native Land in 2018-2020. Native land starts with a feeling of belonging to the nation. Native land shapes the identity of Belarusian people and gives protection to millions of talented, unique and creative people who build our future. Love for native land and the people who live there is a cornerstone of our nation,” the scientist said. We should all get involved, because sovereignty is a realm of national law, the ability to make our own decisions. Each citizen, each patriot should make a contribution to the country's prosperity, serve the interests of their family and the motherland and value what they have, Nikolai Shchekin said.