In his greetings to the participants of the Great Heritage — Common Future international forum of the Union State, President of Russia Vladimir Putin noted that the bonds of brotherly friendship and mutual assistance forged on the battlefields of the Great Patriotic War help Russians and Belarusians develop multifaceted co-operation, build their Union State together, and defend their legitimate interests in the international arena, sb.by reports
It is symbolic that the forum is taking place on Brest land, which is truly sacred to the peoples of Russia and Belarus: exactly 85 years ago, it took the brunt of the Nazi onslaught. "The unparalleled feats, steadfastness and self-sacrifice of the defenders of the Brest Fortress, who were the first to stand in the way of a treacherous and cruel enemy, will never be forgotten. It is important that the bonds of brotherly friendship and mutual assistance, forged on the battlefields of the Great Patriotic War, help Russians and Belarusians develop multifaceted co-operation, build their Union State together and defend their legitimate interests in the international arena. Traditionally, co-operation between legislative authorities and activities within the framework of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union State of Belarus and Russia are an essential component of bilateral relations."
The Russian leader expressed confidence that the highly respected people's deputies can undoubtedly do a lot to preserve the memory of the common glorious history and to educate the younger generations in the spirit of humanism and patriotism.
“The presence of representative delegations from friendly countries at the forum confirms that the majority of the international community fully shares our values and principles, categorically rejects attempts to whitewash the atrocities committed by the Nazis and their accomplices, and is ready to fight any manifestations of neo-Nazism. I am confident that your joint work during this important event will be constructive and fruitful, and will serve to further strengthen mutual understanding between the peoples of our countries."
