Lukashenka emphasized the similarity and closeness of Slavic peoples, Belarusians and Russians

President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, at a meeting with the Governor of the Vologda Oblast of Russia Georgy Filimonov on August 25, spoke about the similarity of the two Slavic peoples, Belarusian and Russian, BELTA correspondent reports.

The head of state began his meeting with the head of the Russian region by mentioning the famous song by "Pesniary" - a Belarusian-Russian collective, as the President called it. Thanks to their composition "Vologda," many in Belarus and beyond associate this Russian city, region, and

He explained why he named this ensemble as such and what role the history of its development in the post-Soviet period plays here. "We had to revive this ensemble. Few people talk about it now. But during the times of rampant nationalism in Belarus (and it did flourish here for several years, a couple of years before the election of the President), some people tried to abandon everything Russian, everything from Russia. They abandoned it and (tried to. - BELTA's note) to force society to do the same. But, as you can see, society did not accept this message," the President emphasized.

Alexander Lukashenko said that at the beginning of his presidency, he met with the members of the ensemble, was well acquainted with Vladimir Muliavin, who, during that difficult creative period, very much asked for help to return to the stage. "Of course, we did everything to ensure that 'Pesnyary' returned," said the head of state. He noted that the song "Vologda" performed by this ensemble is known and highly valued, loved both in the city itself, in the region, and in Belarus. "All of Russia and Belarus know and love the work of 'Pesnyary', including this seemingly simple, but now great song. Indeed, all greatness is in simplicity," the Belarusian leader noted.

Addressing Georgy Filimonov, the President remarked that this is his first visit to Belarus and it can be considered a significant oversight. "This is not right. How can it be? Neighbors, our people - and this is your first time here. But I think this is just the beginning, and when you are in Moscow or somewhere closer to us, you will always find time to visit Belarus," he added. - And not only to remind about the great Vologda region and about yourself (which is also important), but also to review how the agreements we reach with you are being fulfilled."

The head of state assured that there should be no problems from the Belarusian side in this regard and drew attention to the key factors thanks to which this interaction is built on a solid foundation, is reliable and long-term. "Firstly, it is gratitude to the governors for the cooperation we have today. If it weren't for you, there would be no cooperation, especially in the past. Those times were not as simple and rosy in our relations as they are now. Indeed, difficult times unite people. Probably, Belarusians and Russians included, and the leaders of our states," said Alexander Lukashenko.

The Belarusian leader particularly noted the importance of cooperation with Russian regions, including those from its central part.

асти. "Secondly, cooperation with you is very important for us," he emphasized. "Our people have great respect for the Russian people. Even as a Soviet person, it is difficult for me to say this – that Russians, Belarusians… We are one people in fact. We came from one root, were born, we are absolutely alike, we have the same principles, we are developing as Slavic peoples should. We would like to have the kindest and warmest relations."

In turn, Georgy Filimonov thanked the head of the Belarusian state for such "important, warm, correct, programmatic, and constructively настроенные" words spoken at the beginning of the meeting. He confirmed that it is indeed his first time in Minsk and, being