The Department for Archives and Records Management of the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Belarus and the Appellate Economic Court held a joint meeting dedicated to National Unity Day

On September 17, a ceremonial joint meeting of the staffs of the Department for Archives and Records Management of the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Belarus and the Appellate Economic Court took place to mark National Unity Day.

Ruslan Sergeyevich Yelensky, Deputy Chairman of the Appellate Economic Court, addressed the gathering with opening remarks:

«The importance of this holiday extends far beyond a mere historical date. It symbolizes the fact that the unity of the people is the true foundation of our country’s sovereignty and independence. Unity is the primary condition for preserving peace and harmony in our land».

Oleg Leonidovich Voinov, Director of the Department for Archives and Records Management of the Ministry of Justice, added:

«Today’s holiday is also significant because it unites us around enduring values: love for the Motherland, respect for our elders, concern for our children’s future, and a readiness to work for the good of our Fatherland. It reminds us that a nation’s strength lies not in discord and confrontation, but in solidarity, mutual assistance, and each individual’s responsibility for the country’s destiny».

Svyatoslav Valentinovich Kulinok, Deputy Director of the National Archives of the Republic of Belarus, presented a historical overview of the events of September 1939:

«National Unity Day holds special significance. It enables us to preserve our national identity, safeguard the nation, and maintain its humanity. The policy of ethnocide pursued against the Belarusian people did not break the spirit of our fellow citizens. Belarusians actively fought for their reunification, and the names of V.Z. Khoruzhaya, S.O. Pritytsky, and V.Z. Korzh became symbols of that struggle».

Attendees were shown a thematic film titled «Reunification», produced by the Belarusian State Archives of Film, Photo, and Sound Documents. It is based on unique newsreel footage capturing key events in the historic reunification of the Belarusian people.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Oleg Leonidovich Voinov noted that National Unity Day holds particular significance in modern-day Belarus. He observed that voices seeking to divide society, sow discord, and rewrite history are increasingly heard around the world. Against this backdrop, the September 17th holiday serves as a reminder of what matters most: Belarusians are a united people sharing a common destiny, history, and future. It teaches us to cherish the achievements of past generations, value peace and stability, and hold dear the country’s sovereignty and independence.

The Department Director extended his sincerest wishes for good health, well-being, peace, and prosperity, as well as for new achievements for the good of our beloved Motherland.

1. Address by Deputy Chairman of the Economic Court of Appeal R.S.Yelensky

2. Address by Department Director O.L.Voinov

3. Address by Deputy Director of the National Archive S.V.Kulinok