Dear colleagues!

On behalf of the Presidium of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus and on my own behalf, I congratulate you on the Day of the October Revolution.

This is a celebration of our history, both the elderly and the middle generation remember it. The autumn of 1917 opened a new era in the development of mankind, implemented such fundamental principles as the right of nations to self-determination, respect for working-class people, and social justice. 106 years have passed since then. It is possible to treat the events of the past in different ways, evaluating certain historical figures. However, it was the October Revolution that made possible the creation of the Belarusian state, realized the legitimate right of our people to self-determination, development of their culture and strengthening of national unity. It created the conditions for the formation of the Soviet Union, which ensured a Great Victory in the most terrible and bloody World War II. The free education and medical care, the eight-hour working day, the elimination of class privileges, the freedom of conscience and the equality of civil rights of women and men, these and other benefits that seem natural and inalienable to us today constitute the conquest of that time.

The Day of the October Revolution is celebrated in our country as a symbol of respect for the traditions and achievements of previous generations. It brings renewal, new hopes for a bright future, harmony and development, loyalty to labor achievements. This is especially important in the Year of Peace and Creation, which is taking place in our country at the suggestion of the President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Grigoryevich Lukashenko.

I am sure that with our intelligence, talent and hard work we will preserve, multiply and pass on to our descendants our priceless national treasure, sovereign Belarus.

I sincerely wish all of you, dear colleagues, good health, happiness, success and scientific achievements in the name of our beloved Motherland.

Happy holidays!

Vladimir GUSAKOV,
Chairman of the Presidium of the NAS of Belarus, Academician