CIS countries celebrate the Day of Defender of the Fatherland
23 February 2017
Defender of the Fatherland Day is celebrated at the state level in the Kyrgyz Republic and the Russian Federation. In these countries, 23 February is an official day off.
The Day of Defender of the Fatherland is also celebrated in the Republic of Belarus.
In her welcoming message, Chairperson of the IPA CIS Council, Speaker of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation Valentina Matvienko said: "Defenders of the Fatherland Day is one of the most revered national holidays symbolizing military valor and boundless love for one's native land. Today, soldiers and officers who have taken the baton from the older generations, continue the best traditions of the army. On 23 February we pay tribute to them and express our deep gratitude for their brave service."
Numerous exhibitions, concerts and military shows will be held in the countries of the Commonwealth.
