Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko has extended greetings to his compatriots, soldiers and veterans of the Armed Forces on the Day of Defenders of the Fatherland and the Armed Forces of the Republic of Belarus marked on 23 February, BelTA learned from the press service of the Belarusian leader.
“This national holiday is inseparably linked with the struggle of Belarusians for sovereignty and independence, for the right to live freely in their native land,” the message of greetings reads. “The best features of our people - courage, fortitude and heroism - were most vividly demonstrated during the Great Patriotic War, when both the old and the young stood up to defend the great Motherland. We cherish the memory of this feat and in the year marking the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Belarus from Nazi invaders we send special words of gratitude to our dear veterans,” the head of state said.
The head of state stressed that Belarus is proud of the defenders of the Fatherland of all generations who have always fulfilled their military duty with honor. “This was the case in Afghanistan and other hot spots of the planet,” the president said.

Aleksandr Lukashenko has expressed confidence that the Armed Forces have everything necessary to repel any aggressor, defend peace and harmony on the Belarusian land. The system of territorial defense and people's militia created in the country makes the defense of the Fatherland truly nationwide.
The president wished health, happiness, wellbeing and success in serving the Fatherland.