MINSK, 21 January (BelTA) - The choice of the Belarusian people is sacred and undeniable, President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko said in the inauguration ceremony, BelTA has learnt. The head of state said that when giving the oath of allegiance to the Fatherland and the people, he felt the deep gratitude for the trust and support of citizens, as well as great responsibility for the common destiny. “Voices of millions of honest and faithful people, with whom we stood up to the steepest historical turns, inspire and give new strength,” the president said. According to Alexander Lukashenko, the question was not just about the presidential election. In fact it was about the future of the country: whether it would be independent and strong, or whether it would get into bondage; whether it would be the Belarusian people who would decide on its own path of development or whether everything would be given to the mercy of those who are ready to sell their land for nothing and destroy common house. “The trust of people means special requirements and obligations. It makes you an extremely responsible and fair leader with respect to both your supporters and the people who hold alternative views. Because true democracy means not only the assertion of the will of the majority, but also the protection of rights of the minority,” the head of state said. “Evaluating the election campaign objectively, I would like to note that it was absolutely transparent, democratic and compliant with the national legislation, international practices and tough requirements of those who came here to observe the elections. Moreover, we learnt yesterday that even Europe has no claims as to the results of the elections in Belarus. But the most important thing for me is that the Belarusian elections have become an unambiguous evidence of the indissoluble unity of the government and its citizens.” The President emphasized that the people made their opinion known, confirming once again that Belarus is a free, democratic state. “Their choice is sacred and undeniable,” the Belarusian leader said. “Some politicians, representatives of foreign states and international organizations preferred to bury this principle of democracy. Let it rest with them. Our people did not hesitate in this responsible moment, did not yield to the economic dictate, political provocations and hysteria of the local corrupt politicians and journalists. Together we will preserve the main thing – peace on the Belarusian land, unity and national dignity,” Alexander Lukashenko said. The President thanked his compatriots for their firmness and wisdom. “I would like to express gratitude to the states and political leaders who supported us during that difficult moment,” the head of state concluded.

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