Liberation80: Simkovicova: Message of Anniversary Especially Strong These Days

Bratislava, May 8 (TASR) - The message carried by the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War is particularly powerful and relevant, especially in today's societal conditions, stressed Culture Minister Martina Simkovicova (a Slovak National Party/SNS nominee) on Thursday, pointing to the importance of nurturing historical memory. "We must value and recall our history, including the most difficult chapters. The role of all relevant institutions is to make sure that facts and historical truths aren't twisted or cast in doubt," she said. "Culture and art are the very tools with which we can nurture these values and pass them on future generations," added Simkovicova, who, along with ministry State Secretary Mario Maruska, took part in the nationwide celebrations of the end of WWII in Piestany on Thursday. The minister also stressed the importance of freedom and the sacrifices that the fight against Nazism demanded for its sake. "We mustn't forget those who laid down their lives for our freedom," she declared. df/lin