President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy presented state awards to prominent Ukrainian polar explorers for their contribution to scientific activities in Antarctica and on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Ukrainian Antarctic Station "Vernadsky Research Base".
"Every great story is first and foremost about the people who made it possible. I thank the representatives of the Ukrainian polar community present here, as well as all those who worked at the Vernadsky station in different years. I believe that the history of Vernadsky, the history of "Ukrainian Antarctica" will be continued and will be successful. I thank our polar explorers for their work, contribution to science and strengthening the image of Ukraine in the world," Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed.
He also thanked the United Kingdom, which a quarter of a century ago handed over its Faraday research station to Ukraine, for this friendly step, which allowed Ukrainians to continue their scientific history in Antarctica.
Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Ukraine Melinda Simmons, in turn, noted that she was very pleased to represent her country at the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the transfer of the British Faraday station to Ukraine and the appearance of the Vernadsky Research Base.
"This decision symbolizes our real support of scientists of already independent Ukraine. Although we know that Ukrainian scientists worked in Antarctica long before that - as part of Soviet missions. Therefore, we are glad that Britain has played a role in returning Ukraine to the group of countries studying this continent. Antarctica is of great importance to the planet. All countries must strongly counteract global warming to protect and preserve it for future generations. Taking this opportunity, I congratulate all of us, especially Ukrainian polar explorers, on this milestone,” she said.
Chief of the National Antarctic Research Center of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine Yevhen Dykyy noted that Ukraine is a member of the prestigious club of Antarctic states. He thanked the President for his assurances of further support from the state for its most remote outpost on the planet, located 15,000 kilometers from home.
