20 January 2014, 08:45
To the citizens of Crimea on the occasion of the Day of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea
Dear friends!
I sincerely congratulate you on the occasion of the Day of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea.
More than two decades ago the majority of the citizens of the region have stood for granting Crimea the status of autonomy during the national Crimean referendum. That event was a defining moment on the way to establishing democratic principles of formation of the republic’s legal framework and introduction of economic reforms for the prosperity of the southern pearl of Ukraine.
The international family of Crimean citizens with its glorious traditions and centuries long history provides a backstop to the development of the region, establishment of harmonious inter-ethnic relations, as well as reinforcement of peace and harmony on the peninsular.
With all my heart I wish you health, family comfort and well-being. May all your cherished dreams come true, may each new day be warmed by respect and understanding of your near and dear ones, and may there always be peace on the blessed Crimean land!
Volodymyr RYBAK