MINSK, 13 January (BelTA) – Happiness is a great art created by people every day, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said at a traditional reception in the run-up to the old-style New Year on 12 January, BelTA has learnt.

“Our happiness is not a gift from above, but a great art which is created by every person every day. Nobody else, but us can make ourselves happier in the new year,” the Belarusian leader said.

The reception was attended by senior officials, community leaders, cultural figures, athletes and journalists.

“All of us want our country to be a success. But what is this success about? We often overlook important things when we look at figures and facts. One clever person once said: “A country can be called successful if it has Olympic champions, Academy of Sciences and national opera,” Alexander Lukashenko said.

According to the President, this might be an unconventional view; however, art is about soul, science is about intellect, while victories in sport are based on fortitude and will. “Any success in these fields represents a country better than diplomacy. If a country has conditions to nurture talents, this is a really successful country. At least, it can claim to be it,” the Belarusian leader said.

The head of state noted that victories at major international competitions or a decisive goal in a match are not just sports episodes, but an attempt to push oneself to the limit of one’s abilities. Although it often seems impossible to go beyond this limit, an incredible will power and fortitude prove that impossible is nothing. “In moments like this everyone feels unbelievable inspiration and pride for this victorious moment, for our country,” the President said.