Director-General's remarks at the Opening of the Screening "Brest Fortress"

Film screening “Brest Fortress” 
Monday, 23 June 2025, at 2.00 p.m.
Room XXII, Palais des Nations

Delivered on behalf of the Director-General by Ms. Lidiya Grigoreva, Cheffe de Cabinet, Office of the Director-General

Ambassador Belskaya, 
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is an honour to join you today for the screening of the film “Brest Fortress”, a deeply moving and powerful depiction of one of the earliest acts of resistance during the Second World War. On behalf of the Director-General, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Belarus for organizing this event here at the Palais des Nations.  

The day of 22 June carries a special meaning for millions of people in countries of the former USSR, including in Belarus. It marks the anniversary of the start of the Second World War on the Eastern Front, when Nazi Germany invaded the Soviet Union in 1941.

The story told in the movie “Brest Fortress” is one of extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and resilience. It reminds us — especially in times when the past may seem distant — why remembrance matters.

For millions of families in the former USSR, including my own family, the Great Patriotic War remains a deeply personal chapter of history.

This year marks 80 years since the end of the Second World War – a catastrophic conflict that cost tens of millions of lives and left deep and enduring wounds in communities throughout Europe and beyond.

And it also marks the 80th anniversary of the United Nations — an international body born from the ashes of that same war. A community of nations created with one overriding ambition: to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war. That mission remains as urgent and relevant today as it was in 1945.

Today, let us honor the memory of those who gave their lives to defend their homeland. Let us honor their courage, resilience and ultimate sacrifice.

Through art, cinema, and solemn remembrance, we renew our shared commitment to building a world where such tragedies can never happen again. For both present and future generations, we carry the duty to preserve the memory of the past and to strengthen the enduring commitment to lasting peace.

Thank you for your attention.