Old New Year reception

Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko recognized the contributions of those who drive the country forward through concrete deeds at the reception held on behalf of the Belarusian head of state to celebrate Old New Year on 13 January.

Aleksandr Lukashenko called the current event a good tradition, born in sovereign Belarus. It has already become traditional to celebrate the Old New Year and to host a reception on this occasion on behalf of the President, a reception that, to the delight of some and the regret of others, concludes the series of winter holidays.

Turning to the attendees, the President stated: "It is a pleasure to see you. In your person, I primarily wish to express gratitude for the past year to your colleagues, employees, subordinates, your friends, and your loved ones."

The head of state extended words of gratitude to representatives of the media, especially journalists, experts, and analysts. "You are always by our side. Without exaggeration, you defend the country's interests in our information space. Alongside the military. Although you are now at the forefront, even standing ahead of our military personnel."

"This is not just lip service because I'm here at this evening and many of you are here too. No. As I've said before, these are difficult times. We don't know what tomorrow will bring. I'm telling you this sincerely," Aleksandr Lukashenko continued. "The series of events around New Year holidays (you can't call them festive). Who expected there would be such events? No one expected it."

"I am telling you sincerely, and I have access to a vast amount of information: I do not know which way this mad world will turn," said the President.