The National Olympic Committee for the Republic of Belarus launched a drawing contest ©EOC

The National Olympic Committee for the Republic of Belarus has launched a drawing contest dedicated to the Minsk 2019 European Games.

Entitled "The Olympic Flame Lights the Hearts", the main theme of the contest is spectacular sporting events. 

It is dedicated to the 2019 European Games, which took place in the Belarusian capital of Minsk, and the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games in Tokyo.

The initiative, which was also successfully held last year, aims to introduce the ideals and values of the Olympic Movement to children and young people.

Children between the ages of 11 and 17 can enter, and there are a number of subcategories. 

The drawing contest is dedicated to the 2019 European Games, which took place in Minsk ©Getty Images
The drawing contest is dedicated to the 2019 European Games, which took place in Minsk ©Getty Images

Children without parental care are able to enter the "fire of hope" category, while secondary school students can enter the "fire of unity" category. 

A "fire of inspiration" category is open for physically challenged children, while children from special education schools are eligible for the "fire of friendship" competition. 

Winners will receive their awards in June 2020.

Minsk 2019 took place from June 21 to 30 last year, with more than 3,500 athletes competing across 15 sports.