21 January 2011, 09:30
Address of Volodymyr Lytvyn, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, to the Citizens of Ukraine on the Occasion of the Reunion Day of Ukraine
Address of Volodymyr Lytvyn, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, to the Citizens of Ukraine on the Occasion of the Reunion Day of Ukraine
Dear fellow citizens!
Peering into the past, weighting its usefulness for numerous generations, we stop our glance at the events and dates that defined our history and destiny, provide the basis for them. Despite the hardships, disturbances and losses, they enlightened the age of independence of Ukraine, thus they managed to preserve their significance in the controversial times and continue shining for the present generations.
Proclamation of the reunion of two separated parts of a single Ukraine on the snow-covered Sofia Square on 22 January 1919 became one of the most important and essential events in the centuries-old history of Ukrainian nation. From this date, the newest chronology in Ukraine commenced full of the new spirit and state-forming content. It is a great victory on the path of the Ukrainian state independence and development.
Extending the hands of brotherhood, both parts of separated Ukraine have shown not only sincere desire to be united, but also their common responsibility for the destiny of our land and our future.
Let us never forget that taking this unprecedented step was extremely complicated under the critical political conditions of those times, especially for the nation torn to pieces by the borders of foreign states.
Respect for the past is revealed through the learning of its lessons. Insubordinated to the course of time and political environment, the ides of the Reunion Acts shall be preserved in the self-being of nation, become its constructive and protective functions.
Let us carefully listen to the event of the previous century, to the conclusions and warnings. We are supposed to appreciate their good lessons: reunion of our lands commences from the reunion of our hearts, thoughts and souls. Reunion lessons bind us to concentrate on the essential formation of the democratic society, strong and wealthy Ukraine.
I hope that this day will unite our friendly hands and hearts in the general striving for peace and flourishing of our Ukraine in the 20th anniversary of its independence.
I wish you happiness, energy and inspiration!
Volodymyr LYTVYN