Ukraine continues to receive congratulations from presidents and heads of government on the occasion of the 29th anniversary of independence.
Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau congratulated the Ukrainian community in Canada and Ukrainians around the world on Ukraine's Independence Day.
Justin Trudeau noted that over 1.3 million Canadians of Ukrainian descent call Ukraine their home.
“Canada was the first Western country to recognize Ukraine’s independence. Ever since, we have worked alongside the people of Ukraine as a steadfast partner and close friend. We have supported them in their efforts to protect their sovereignty and security and build a more prosperous, democratic future,” Justin Trudeau emphasized.
He noted that Canadian servicemen assist in strengthening and modernization of the Armed Forces of Ukraine as part of Operation UNIFIER.
“We have also established free trade between our two countries and we are working closely with the international community to support Ukraine’s reform efforts,” the Prime Minister of Canada stressed.
He noted that this year was difficult for people in both countries. In particular, the Ukraine International Airlines flight PS752 tragedy and the COVID-19 pandemic have taken the lives of many Canadians and Ukrainians, and changed the lives of countless others. These challenges are a reminder of the importance of solidarity and cooperation for the security and well-being of Ukrainians and Canadians.
“Today, we celebrate the close people-to-people connections, cultural ties, and values that unite Canada and Ukraine. We look forward to continuing to build our relationship as we advance our shared priorities and we reaffirm our steadfast commitment to support Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Justin Trudeau noted finishing his greetings with the words “Glory to Ukraine!”.
President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping expressed his sincere congratulations and good wishes to the friendly Ukrainian people. In particular, he wished prosperity and power to the country, and happiness and welfare to Ukrainians.
“Ukraine is a strategic partner of China and an important country participating in the One Belt, One Road initiative. In recent years, Chinese-Ukrainian relations have been steadily advancing in a healthy direction," Xi Jinping said.
He noted the great success in cooperation in various fields. In particular, China and Ukraine are fighting side by side with the coronavirus epidemic, which fully confirms the sincere friendship between people of the two countries.
"I attach great importance to the development of Chinese-Ukrainian relations and am ready to make joint efforts to achieve unity of opinion and develop even greater potential for cooperation for the benefit of the two states and their people," he said.
In a congratulatory letter to Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev wished the people of Ukraine peace and prosperity.
He noted that today the relations between Azerbaijan and Ukraine are on the path of dynamic development.
"I believe that our traditionally friendly relations, mutually beneficial cooperation will continue to successfully develop and expand in the interests of our people," Ilham Aliyev wrote.
In his letter to Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Israeli President Reuven Rivlin wished Ukraine and the Ukrainian people ongoing progress and prosperity.
He noted that this year the celebrations are taking place under the restrictions brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. He expressed condolences to those who have lost their lives.
“I wish you and the people of Ukraine health and resilience. We value the good relations and mutually beneficial cooperation between Israel and Ukraine and I am confident we can look forward to the further strengthening and expansion of the bilateral relations and cooperation between our two countries over the coming years,” Reuven Rivlin noted.
President of the Republic of Lithuania Gitanas Nausėda also congratulated the President of Ukraine on Independence Day and assured him of full support.
"We will continue to uphold your sovereignty and territorial integrity. I assure you that Lithuania will remain a strong supporter of Ukraine's aspirations for European and Atlantic integration," Gitanas Nausėda wrote.
Earlier, the presidents of the United States, France, Germany, Switzerland, Poland, as well as Pope Francis, Queen Elizabeth II and other world leaders congratulated Ukraine on the 29th anniversary of independence.