BREST, 15 August (BelTA) – A solemn ceremony to open the International Army Games 2022 took place in the memorial complex Brest Hero Fortress on 14 August, BelTA has learned.
The International Army Games 2022 are scheduled to take place in 12 countries on 13-27 August. Belarus is hosting three events. The Polar Star event takes place in Brest, Confident Reception in Minsk, and Steel Artery in Slutsk. Teams from Armenia, Belarus, Venezuela, Vietnam, Zimbabwe (observers), Iran, Cameroon, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Mali, Russia, Syria, Sudan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are taking part in the competitions.
Belarusian Defense Minister Aide for Ideology, Chief of the Central Office for Ideology of the Belarusian Defense Ministry Leonid Kasinsky said: “The army Olympics grow more and more popular every year. The number of participating states grows larger. Despite geopolitical processes going on in the world the International Army Games have gathered 297 teams from 34 countries. In the Belarusian land we host teams from 14 countries. It is a great honor for us.”
The Belarusian part of the International Army Games 2022 was opened in Brest for a reason. “Here the land is soaked with the blood of defenders of the Brest Fortress. I think every participant of the army games has to visit this sacred place while in Belarus,” the officer added. A minute of silence was arranged as part of the opening ceremony as a tribute to the fallen defenders of the Brest Fortress. Flowers and wreaths were laid at the Eternal Fire. By the way, foreign military organizers will be made familiar with Belarus' traditions and culture.
Leonid Kasinsky said he was confident that the International Army Games will proceed in the spirit of a fair fight and the strongest ones will win. In particular, Belarus is represented by teams in 27 contests in 12 countries. “I am convinced that the guys will demonstrate not only the highest professional skills but also high morale and will secure a victory,” the Defense minister aide concluded.
