To soldiers-internationalists,

veterans of the war in Afghanistan

Dear friends,

Twenty years ago the military operation of a limited contingent of the Soviet troops in Afghanistan ended.

In mortal danger, our Motherland’s sons were fulfilling, courageously and firmly, their military tasks in an effort to bring peace and tranquillity to the Afghan land. Sadly, the main goal, which was to normalise the situation and bring political settlement to this country agonised by years of discord, was not reached. Bitter disagreements still remain there today.

Thousands of Belarusian families suffered from this war. We share the pain of mothers and widows, bow before the blessed memory of the fallen heroes who were fulfilling their international duty.

Today participants of the military actions in hot spots across the planet work hard in a noble effort to contribute to patriotic upbringing of the youth. This activity brings great benefits to the society and the state which provides all-round support to the veterans with ill health or who have found themselves confronted with difficult situations in life.

I wish you, dear soldiers-internationalists, your families and loved ones good health, happiness, peace and optimism. I thank you for your courage and active civil position.

15 February 2009

Alexander Lukashenko