The ceremony took place in the presence of former Polish president and iconic Solidarity leader Lech Wałęsa.
Poland's Ministry of Foreign Affairs awarded Pavel Latushka, Deputy Chairman of Belarus's United Transitional Cabinet, for his efforts in promoting democracy, highlighting Poland's support for Belarus's democratic aspirations.
Sikorski praised Latushka's dedication to peace and democracy, saying, "Pavel Latushka proved he is a committed politician, determined to fight not only for his country but for peace and democracy in Europe."
Poland's top diplomat also stated, "The Lech Wałęsa Solidarity Prize is a mark of respect for your courage and for actions that bring Belarusians closer to the day they return to the European family of free nations."
Latushka expressed that the award is a great honor and responsibility, adding, "Belarusians are not alone; we feel immense support, which is a powerful motivation for all fighting for democracy in Belarus."
He sees the prize as a strategic signal that democratic change in Belarus is a priority for Poland's foreign policy.
In addition to a statuette, Latushka will receive a monetary award of 1 million PLN, as confirmed by the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Warsaw, September 18, 2024. Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski and awardee Pavel Latushka, a Belarusian opposition leader and Deputy Chairman of the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus, during the ceremony for the Lech Wałęsa Solidarity Prize (PAP/L.Szymanski).
The Lech Wałęsa Solidarity Prize, established in 2014 and revived in 2023, recognizes individuals for their exceptional contributions to promoting democracy and civil liberties.
It seeks to encourage democratic values and honor efforts that support the peaceful advancement of human rights, the rule of law, and good governance at various levels, with past recipients including Mustafa Dzhemilev, a leader of the Crimean Tatars, and Zhanna Nemtsova, a journalist and daughter of the assassinated Russian opposition figure Boris Nemtsov.
Source: IAR/MSZ
(m p)