Belarus marks Independence Day

This year’s Independence Day is special in Belarus as it coincided with the 70th anniversary of the country’s liberation from the Nazi invaders. Independence Day is a major holiday of Belarusian statehood. It was declared in 1996 by Decree of the President of Belarus and has become a symbol of revival of the Belarusian State. By the will of citizens expressed in the national referendum, the Independence Day is celebrated on the day of liberation of Minsk from the Nazi invaders in July 1944.

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko extended congratulations to compatriots on the country’s main holiday. The President drew attention to the fact that there were many obstacles and ordeals on the road to independence. "Over the years we have become stronger, wiser and are ready to respond to any modern challenges,” the President noted.