– This year the World Friendship Games, the BRICS Games and the Olympic Games will be held, - the interlocutor noted. - I named them in that order, because we all understand the pressure exerted on Belarus. But, as the head of state recently noted, participation in the Olympics is a matter for athletes. Despite the fact that our countrymen will perform under a neutral flag, in a neutral status, everyone will know that they are citizens of Belarus, and they will prove that our country is the best. Of course, if you go to the Olympic Games in a neutral status, you must not just participate, but fight for prizes and prove that we are ahead of everyone.

– Is it known which of the athletes of the region will take part in the World Friendship Games and the BRICS Games?

– There are preliminary lists. But the final choice of athletes and delegates is up to the sports federations. These are the strongest athletes of the Vitebsk region, and we provide them with every possible support in training.