The Days of Moldovan Culture in Belarus testifies to a sincere mutual interest between the two countries, Belarus Prime Minister Andrei Kobyakov said at the opening of the Days of Culture at the Belarusian State Philharmonics on 6 June, BelTA has learned.

“It is a milestone in the bilateral relations between Belarus and Moldova which attests to a sincere mutual interest, cultural achievements of our nations, and an intention to develop and strengthen cooperation between the two countries,” said the prime minister. Andrei Kobyakov expressed confidence that it is the culture that makes one of the fundamental factors in strengthening the friendship between nations. “Despite all the difficulties of the present-day life, the art is capable of filling our reality with light and warmth, preserve and multiply good traditions of friendship, promote peace and concord,” he added.

“We can state that the development of the Belarusian-Moldovan relations, which are based on a solid foundation of historical and cultural ties, have recently intensified in all the spheres to produce a positive momentum,” the PM said.

In his words, Moldovan performers are regular and welcome guests at different festivals of Belarus, including the Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk, Land Under White Wings in Mozyr and many others. According to the premier, the Days of Culture have become a good tradition which promotes the strengthening of brotherly ties.

According to Andrei Kobyakov, on 6 June the parties signed a joint action plan in culture for 2017-2019, which testifies to the countries' wish to continue developing cultural cooperation. The PM added that the two countries plan a number of interesting events to mark 25 years of diplomatic relations in 2017. Among them will be the erection of a bust to Belarusian first printer Francysk Skaryna in Chisinau.

Moldova’s Prime Minister Pavel Filip said for his part that the interethnic dialogue and respect to cultural diversity should be the crucial elements of the modern world in which nations are closely interrelated. According to the prime minister, the understanding of the fact that culture promotes social cohesion helps consider it as a powerful resource that efficiently assists in addressing any issues.

Pavel Filip stated that cultural cooperation between the two countries will continue expanding. The relations between Moldova and Belarus can be viewed exemplary, based on mutual respect, he added.

The Days of Moldovan Culture are held on 6-7 June. The program includes concerts of the national folk dance ensemble Fluieras at the Belarusian State Philharmonics and the performance of the Mogilev Oblast Drama and Comedy Theater in Bobruisk.

While in Minsk, Moldovan Culture Minister Monica Babuc paid a visit to the National cinema studio Belarusfilm, the Museum of the History of the Great Patriotic War, and the National Library.