Kochanova: neo-Nazism, extremism, terrorism, radical nationalism commonplace in some countries

After two devastating and deadly wars of the last century that caused untold grief, pain and suffering, the world should have learnt serious lessons – as stated by Natalya Kochanova, the Chairperson of the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly of Belarus, during the first online meeting of the Group of Friends of Neutrality heads of parliaments

She underlined, “However, the realities are different. Neo-Nazism, extremism, terrorism, and radical nationalism have become commonplace in a range of countries. Revanchists are raising their heads again, fiercely fighting the past, banning the celebration of Victory Day, demolishing monuments, glorifying traitors without shame or remorse, denigrating the real heroes who gained our freedom and independence at an incredible cost, and consigning the historical memory to oblivion. Belarus has repeatedly been at the epicentre of destructive wars – not started by us and not by our will – suffering colossal irreparable losses, losing every third resident during the Great Patriotic War alone and actually being burnt to the ground.”

According to the Speaker of the Council of the Republic, the Belarusian people have suffered a lot, so are aware of the price of peace like no one else.

“The ideas of genuine peacefulness and creative work as the main conditions for the progressive development of the state are carefully preserved and cultivated in the Belarusian society,” said Natalya Kochanova. “The Republic of Belarus is a truly peace-loving state, always pursuing a policy of good neighbourliness. We don’t threaten anyone and will never do.”