Greetings to participants of a gala meeting marking Russia and Belarus Unity Day 2022-04-02 12:30:00 Vladimir Putin sent a message of greetings to participants of a gala meeting marking the Day of Unity between the Peoples of Russia and Belarus. The message reads, in part: “Moscow and Minsk have been facing unparalleled external pressure recently. I firmly believe that all-around strengthening of the allied Russian-Belarusian ties, stepping up mutually advantageous integration processes and bilateral cooperation across the board will be the best response to unfriendly actions by certain nations. Of special significance is the coordination of efforts in the international arena, enhancing our defence capabilities as well as pursuing an agreed policy of import substitution in industry, agriculture and other sectors of the economy. Apparently, the priority in doing so is to ensure the well-being and safety for the citizens of Russia and Belarus. Indicatively, the award ceremony for the Union State prizes in science and technology was timed to coincide with today’s holiday. I would like to heartily congratulate its winners – scientists and engineers of our countries who are jointly developing and implementing crucial programmes and projects. I have no doubt that together we will be able to overcome any challenges and obstacles.”