22 February 2008, 14:27
Dear Motherland Defenders! Dear Veterans!
I sincerely congratulate you on the Day of Motherland Defender a holiday that includes rich and glorious heroic traditions, embodies courage and heroism of defenders and liberators of native land at all stages of its history.
This virtually national holiday unites people of many generations, since there has never been more honoured pursuit than defense of native land, protection of liberty and independence of Motherland.
Paying tribute to heroic feats of Ukrainian army, I bow down before your courage and infinite devotion to your duty.
Ukraine builds modern high-professional army, able to meet modern challenges and confront threats to security of our State, and Year 2008 is to be crucial in the said activity. At present the priority tasks of defense reform are as follows: enhancement of battle training and fighting efficiency; permanent funding of creation and purchase of modern samples of armaments and machinery; elimination of imbalances in pecuniary provision of servicemen; tightening of discipline and law order.
I am convinced that the honoured duty of a Motherland defender should become a reputable pursuit of true patriots and professionals.
I sincerely wish you sound health, long years of peaceful life, attention and care of relatives.