President of the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of Belarus Viktor Lukashenko congratulated the sports community on the International Olympic Day, BelTA learned from the NOC press service.
The International Olympic Day is celebrated annually on 23 June. This date commemorates the day when the IOC was founded on 23 June 1894. Viktor Lukashenko stressed that this holiday is meant to unite people, through sport and the basic values laid down by founder of Olympism Baron Pierre de Coubertin, for the benefit of development and progress of all mankind.
“For our country with a rich sporting history and traditions, which is at the forefront of the Olympic movement, the principles of unity, respect, friendship and cooperation remain inviolable. The NOC of Belarus consistently adheres to all the provisions of the Olympic Charter, not allowing itself free interpretations in favor of political manipulation.
We continue to work hard to ensure that these principles again become the guiding principles for all international structures in relation to Belarusian athletes. More and more of our athletes are performing on the international stage, and more and more sports organizations are aware of the harm the previous wrongful decisions inflicted on the whole sport. I am sure that justice will be restored, because the truth is on our side.
I thank all the athletes, coaches, doctors and every member of our Olympic family. You demonstrate iron will and high professionalism, defending the honor of the country even in the most difficult conditions. Your victories speak for themselves. Every Belarusian is proud of your fortitude, and the younger generation looks up to you. Every day it becomes more prestigious to engage in physical activities and lead a healthy lifestyle.
I thank everyone for contributing to the development of the Olympic movement, popularizing sports and for special emotions that you give to fans every day. Please, remember, sport is a huge force, a powerful resource and inspiration. Embrace the sport for a vibrant life and harness the opportunities that come your way! Time to win is now!” the NOC head said in his message.
