Lukashenko: CIS unity is based on shared history and cultural heritage

«Unity in the CIS is based on a common history, cultural heritage, and human ties,» stated Alexander Lukashenko at the Council of Heads of State of the CIS in Turkmenistan.

✔️ On the realities of the 35-year history of the CIS:

«Looking back, one remembers the difficult conditions under which our Commonwealth was created. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, external forces openly sought to manipulate the young states. Unfortunately, this policy continues today. Our organization has been ridiculed in every way, called a 'geopolitical phantom' and a 'myth.' It was even predicted to last only a few months, with no thought given to the possibility of integration among our republics.

At this point, I would like to say that the opponents miscalculated strategically. The reality is indeed more complex.»

✔️ Youth as a driver of integration across the CIS space:

«To restore cohesion and strength to the family, much more attention must be paid to youth. It is future generations who will have to respond to old and new threats to our unity.

Young people must not just drift with the current but become drivers of integration. They should develop and implement socially significant projects that are in demand across the Commonwealth.»

🔴 Alexander Lukashenko noted that three Belarusian cities — Minsk, Maladzyechna, and Lida — will become youth, cultural, and tourist capitals of the CIS, providing an international platform for self-realization, creativity, and communication for new generations.

The President also emphasized that «the potential of the CIS has not been exhausted. The Union is, and will remain for many years to come, a Commonwealth of common destiny.»

💬 For reference, the total population of the Commonwealth is 250 million people, and the total area is 20 million square kilometers.