To the organizers, participants and guests
of the II All-Ukrainian Forum of Veterans
I sincerely greet this highly respected meeting, distinguished and established people whose military service and devoted work created the glorious annals of Ukraine on the occasion of the International Day of Older People and the Veterans Day.
Both of these holidays are not just the way of paying tribute to this category of people that traditionally is the essential feature and revealing measurement of civilization of any society. They are a sign of all-nation recognition both of historical achievements of veterans and the importance of their experience and example for modern practice and prospects of sate building. They preserve and strengthen spiritual basis of our essence, ensuring healthy moral and psychological atmosphere in the society.
During the years of Independence the state has done a lot for legislative strengthening of the status of veterans, determining principles of state policy in the sphere of social safety, ensuring their rights and interests. At the same time, the need to establish and use of effective mechanisms in implementing these provisions, norms and demands still remains topical and urgent. Neither veteran community, nor none of its representatives should remain face to face with their problems.
I am convinced that current representative forum will serve for further strengthening of cooperation between sate authorities and the veteran movement, increasing its effectiveness.
I wish you dear veterans happiness, health, vivacity, many bright and fruitful years!
Volodymyr LYTVYN