One of the match organizers, Yuri Primakov, said that the game traditionally takes place on the eve of Belarus’ Independence Day. «Rodina and Diplomat are holding a friendly match for the fourth time. This year, the game is being held at the National Football Stadium for the first time. We are very pleased to have the opportunity to show diplomats our new stadium,» Yuri Primakov noted. He added that FC Diplomat included representatives of the diplomatic corps from Russia, Kazakhstan, Bulgaria, Iran, Kyrgyzstan, Nigeria, and other countries, as well as representatives of international organizations.

Deputy Chairman of the Standing Commission on Economic Policy of the House of Representatives Denis Karas took the field as part of Rodina. «It is symbolic that on this very day, 82 years ago, Operation Bagration began. We remember our past and are grateful to our ancestors for the peaceful sky above us. For many decades, Belarus has maintained a constructive diplomatic position. Today’s game is one example,» Denis Karas emphasized.

He also noted that playing in such a beautiful stadium can show the world how peaceful and open Belarus’ policy is. «The mood is wonderful, just like the weather. Diplomats from friendly countries are taking part in the match. We want to show the world that if there is a field where disputes can be settled, it is only a sports field. Our team is diverse: it includes civil servants, prominent athletes, and artists. The spirit of sport unites,» Denis Karas said.

Assistant to the judge of the EAEU Court Mukhamet uulu Bekzhan has been playing for Diplomat for the second year. «We have met the Rodina team many times in friendly matches. We always have a fighting spirit, but we will play diplomatically. We train every week,» he noted.

Deputy Head of the Secretariat of the EAEU Court Nurkhan Mermankulov said it was a great honor for him to take the field in the run-up to one of Belarus’ main holidays. «Our team includes representatives of international organizations and foreign missions. This shows that Belarus creates very good conditions for diplomatic work,» he emphasized.

The friendly match ended in a high-scoring 4:4 draw.