The "RT.DOK: Time of Our Heroes" festival opened in South Ossetia. The Government officials, military personnel, members of the special military operation forces, and the public gathered at the Chermen Cinema and Concert Hall.
Deputy Prime Minister Alan Dzhioev read out a welcoming address of President Alan Gagloev.
"I welcome you to South Ossetia, where heroism and devotion are the foundation of our national identity. The opening of the festival allows the viewers to learn about the stories of people who demonstrated exceptional courage during the most difficult moments of our history.
The heroism of the South Ossetian soldiers, who are fighting shoulder to shoulder with Russian soldiers in the special military operation zone, is a reminder of the eternal friendship and brotherhood of our peoples. The festival reveals living proof of courage, fortitude, and devotion to the homeland," the President's welcoming address reads.
It was also noted that the films shown at the festival were not simply chronicles of the events, but profound analyses of human actions that remind of the patriotism and bravery of our soldiers.
Russian Ambassador to South Ossetia Marat Kulakhmetov has noted that today's event is a tribute to the soldiers serving in the special military operation zone.
"Many years ago, our elders were working forging victory in the great, bloody war. Today, in the special military operation zone, hundreds of soldiers from South Ossetia are fighting shoulder to shoulder with the Russians. Participants and eyewitnesses of the special military operation always say that where the Ossetians are, victory is always there; no one will waver or retreat. I am confident that victory will be ours," Kulakhmetov said.
Deputy Commander of the Alania Reconnaissance and Sabotage Detachment Nikolai Tuaev expressed gratitude for hosting the festival.
"I've witnessed the war correspondents rushing forward more than once. These are the same soldiers who bring us closer to victory. Unfortunately, not all of them will celebrate the victory with us," Tuaev said, asking for a moment of silence in memory of the heroes.
The National Fund for Support of Social Programs and the International Institute for the Development of Communications MIR-MOST-OSSETIA Foundation served as the festival's general partners.
