MINSK, 26 July (BelTA) - The first-ever gastronomic festival Flavors of Diplomacy organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus brought together around 150 guests from more than 20 countries in Minsk, BelTA learned.
"This is a new format for us, and we are glad that, judging by the number of participants, it has resonated with the diplomatic community," Minister of Foreign Affairs Maksim Ryzhenkov said as he addressed the guests. "I am convinced that it is in such forms - simple, sincere, and informal - that make it easier to talk about what truly matters: mutual respect, interest in each other's cultures, understanding, and closer ties.”
The minister noted that cuisine represents an authentic part of a nation's culture that cannot be artificially manufactured. "You can't export it by decree - it originates in homes and families, passed down through generations. Taste shapes memory. And memory shapes how we perceive ourselves, others, and the world," he emphasized.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Maksim Ryzhenkov described Belarusian cuisine as "genuine, homey, comforting." The minister emphasized that Belarusian culinary traditions are based on the respect for ingredients, labor, and family heritage. "We do not have 'one correct recipe' even for our most iconic dishes. Today you will see this for yourselves during the draniki cooking workshop. It might seem like one of Belarus' most traditional dishes, yet every family has its own recipe, its own story, its own distinct flavor," Maksim Ryzhenkov added.
The minister stressed that certain differences and cultural particularities need not prevent representatives of different nations from gathering around the same table. "Belarus has always stood for equality, respect for traditions, and for every nation's right to choose. For a world where ready-made solutions are not imposed, but where we truly listen to one another. Where we do not compare, but respect. Where differences are perceived not as threats, but as valuable assets," the minister affirmed.
This encapsulates the very essence of the Flavors of Diplomacy culinary festival, an event celebrating unconditional respect, traditions and culture that transcends language barriers. Minister of Foreign Affairs Maksim Ryzhenkov expressed gratitude to all who accepted the invitation and contributed to the festival.
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