The former Polish president received the Cross of Good Neighbourhood, an award presented by Belarus's United Transitional Cabinet to individuals recognised for strengthening ties between nations and supporting democratic change in the country.
The award was accepted on Wałęsa's behalf by his son, Bogdan.
Presenting the honour, opposition figure Pavel Latushka thanked Wałęsa, Poland and its people for their support for Belarusians seeking freedom.
Bialiatski, founder of the Viasna Human Rights Centre and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, received the European Solidarity Centre's Solidarity and Human Rights Badge.
During the ceremony, speakers recalled that he had faced repeated persecution and imprisonment for his activities.
Accepting the award, Bialiatski spoke of solidarity with people deprived of freedom and dignity.
He said he was guided by the defence of fundamental human rights, truth and the right of nations to choose their own path.
He also referred to the shared experiences of Poland, Ukraine, Lithuania and Belarus in resisting Soviet totalitarianism and Russian imperialism.
Opening the forum, Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Artur Harazim described culture as a foundation of democracy, saying language, tradition and identity strengthen communities and encourage self-organisation in the face of repression.
Organised by Poland's Foreign Ministry and the European Solidarity Centre, this year's forum is dedicated to Belarusian culture.
(ał)
Source: PAP