Dear Belarusians and Russians,

I cordially congratulate you on the Day of Unity of the Peoples of Belarus and Russia.

Twelve years ago we embarked on the course of deep and comprehensive integration based on our willingness to be together, live and work teamwise. Time has proved that we chose the right course: Belarusian-Russian relationship has been developing dynamically in all areas. Much has been achieved in the economic sphere: last year the bilateral trade turnover went beyond the mark of 26 billion US dollars. Interregional contacts have been expanding; new high-efficiency manufacturing facilities have been set up.

Union State programmes have become an increasingly important practical tool for solving many socioeconomic problems. These programmes are implemented in all areas of bilateral cooperation and range from joint steps in the military and technological area to contacts in the humanitarian field. There has been developed an effective system of interaction in foreign policy; our joint defence potential has been growing.

The results of the last meeting of the Supreme State Council of the Belarus-Russia Union State and the recent talks have demonstrated the preparedness of the two states to search for mutually acceptable solutions to every issue. They have showed the commitment to further fostering the wellbeing of the citizens of Belarus and Russia, ensuring their security, creating the necessary conditions for the successful development of our countries.

Today’s dialogue between the leaders, based on mutual trust and equal rights, is the key factor in producing well-coordinated worthy responses to new challenges of today.

In turn, the unanimous choice of the Russian society, who have voted in favour of preserving the continuity of the current political and economic policy in Russia, gives confidence to continue the creation of a full-fledged Union meeting our mutual interests.

Dear friends,

On this special day allow me, from the bottom of my heart, to wish you happiness, good health and optimism.

May our common holiday – the Day of Unity of the Peoples of Belarus and Russia – always be a symbol of our friendship and intellectual kinship, a symbol of wellbeing of many generations of the Belarusians and the Russians.

Alexander Lukashenko