The congratulatory telegram reads, in particular:
”The symbolism of this date is inextricably linked to the day that marks the liberation of Belarus from the Nazi invaders. Our peoples fought for freedom side by side, forging a victory for all. And Russia will always remember the glorious exploits of the sons and daughters of the Belarusian land, rising up to resist the enemy.
Because our friendship has put us together through such an ordeal, our mutual respect today provides a sound basis for the further development of our neighbourly relations. Russia and Belarus both face the same difficult problems. To resolve them successfully requires a concerted joint effort. We are firmly committed to every possible way of ensuring mutually beneficial cooperation, promoting the economic and social progress of our nations, and strengthening their democratic institutions.”