“Dear Organizers of the Minsk Forum, Ambassador Huterer, ladies and gentlemen, dear friends,
Thirty years ago, Belarusians declared their willingness to live in a democratic, independent, and sovereign country. Unfortunately, Belarusian sovereignty is still being challenged. It is under threat again. This threat comes from those supposed to be guarantors of sovereignty and independence who seized power and are running the country by terror.
However, 30 years of independence taught Belarusians a lot. We learned not to count on someone on the top. We learned to self-organize and act in solidarity with those in need. We learned to take responsibility for our house. For our neighborhood. For our city and country.
These 30 years gave us time to rediscover ourselves. Belarusian national identity is being formed right now – in our struggle, daily work, and suffering.
The spirit of Belarus doesn't live in Belarus only anymore. It is in Vilnius and Warsaw, Kyiv and Berlin. And I’m sure that Belarusians from Homiel to Hrodna, from Brest to Vitebsk, from Vilnius to Los Angeles wake up every morning with a strong desire to do everything to solve the horrible crisis our beloved country is passing through.
Therefore, I’m delighted that the Minsk Forum has gathered so many talented experts. It is paramount for me that the world understands the essence and content of the events in Belarus.
Thanks to you, the world has the knowledge and a better understanding of all the processes in Belarus.
Your insights and analysis are much-needed to understand the root of the ongoing crisis and find a practical solution.
I hope we will avoid the false dilemma which is often put in front of us: independence or democracy. Belarusian people deserve to have both.
I’m also glad and thankful to Germany for the support of this conference, for the support to our students, medics, media, and trade unions.
I hope that Germany will continue its support to Belarusians. Because of what is often taken for granted in Germany and Europe, thousands of Belarusians have to fight for every day: freedom.
And I would like to emphasize one thing: this is not just about Belarus. It is about the future of democracy in Europe. We need a radical transition and more bold action for democracy.
We need a vision for the future in Europe. We have no time to lose. We must encourage and support people who want to actively work for change. And take destiny into our own hands because democracy thrives on action.
Germany is not simply an economic power and a global exports leader; Germany is a constitutional state based on democratic values. Just as Europe is not simply a single market but a continent united by fundamental rights and freedoms. We owe the next generation an inspiring narrative of future Europe and an innovative democracy.
I know it’s not that easy, but I also know that it is doable. And I hope that today’s conference will get us one step closer to democratic Belarus and a prosperous and secure Europe.
Danke and Zhyve Belarus!”.
