Minsk, September 22, 2024 – The Europe Today: A peace rally held on Independence Square in Minsk on September 21, coinciding with the International Day of Peace, culminated in an address urging the world to preserve peace and halt wars. The address was delivered by Elena Staselko, Deputy Chairwoman of the Board of the Minsk City Branch of the Belarusian Peace Fund.
Participants at the rally appealed to individuals, leaders, and governments globally, encouraging them to take proactive steps toward achieving world peace. “We call on you to take active action for the sake of peace! Let’s change the world for our children and together with them!” the address stated.
The message emphasized that peace is fundamental for any nation’s development, allowing people to live, work, and study in safety, build families, and enjoy life without fear of sudden disruption. “We want all people of the world to see only peaceful dawns and sunsets, and we urge you to preserve pristine nature, historical monuments, and cultural heritage,” it continued, expressing a belief that conflicts can be resolved through peaceful means.
Staselko underscored the importance of collective effort in maintaining peace, stating, “Peace begins with everyone. We’re calling on you. We all need it. Let there be peace on earth, let there be friendship. Let the radiant sun shine for all of us, and let no one ever know war.”
The event featured the ringing of the Peace Bell, symbolizing hope that the heartfelt call for peace would resonate globally. This rally was not only a demonstration for peace but also commemorated the Day of National Unity and the 80th anniversary of Belarus’s liberation from Nazi invaders.
Delegations from various peace schools, members of the House of Representatives of the National Assembly of Belarus, the Minsk City Council of Deputies, diplomatic missions, religious representatives, and members of the public attended the rally, highlighting a collective commitment to fostering a peaceful world.
