Dear Lord Provost, First Minister, members of the Consular Corps and the Ukrainian community, dear friends and colleagues!
First and foremost, on behalf of the Ukrainian Consulate, I want to express my sincere gratitude to all of you for your tremendous support at today's event to pay a tribute those who sacrificed their lives for Ukraine's Independence during russia’s appalling two and a half years of full-scale war and ten years of Russian aggression against Ukraine.
On the run-up to the 33rd anniversary of Ukraine's Independence Day, we reflect upon the significant milestone achieved on the 24th August 1991 when the Act of Independence was adopted by the Parliament of Ukraine. That historical moment marked our liberation from the shackles of the Soviet past and the beginning of determining our own destiny as a free and self-governing nation.
Throughout the years, the people of Ukraine have achieved remarkable milestones, surpassing any previous achievements in our millennial history. We have embraced our identity as a country of freedom and dignity, a hub of creativity and innovation, and a land of diverse opportunities. Even in the face of a full-scale military invasion by russia, we have been remaining steadfast in our determination to become a full-fledged member of the European Union and NATO, stepping up our pace of European reforms.
I want to reiterate it over and over again; the Ukrainians are very greatly appreciating Scotland for its relentless support and understanding the national interests of Ukraine – this is our people. Scotland has exemplified a humanitarian response to russia's war against Ukraine, offering sanctuary to many thousands of Ukrainian refugees and providing essential resources such as housing, healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.
In order to restore sustainable peace and uphold a rules-based international order, it is critical that all Russian war criminals be rendered liable to prosecution for their heinous actions against the people of Ukraine. No one should be exempt from justice for the suffering inflicted upon the Ukrainian people and the threat posed to global security.
Ukraine remains steadfast in its pursuit of a prosperous, peaceful, free, and democratic world for all. We believe that, with broad international support, Ukraine will celebrate its next Independence Day in a peaceful environment within its internationally recognized borders.
Thank you all for sticking together for Ukraine’s matters. Let us work together to create a lasting tribute to those who have given so much for the cause of freedom and justice for the entire Europe and beyond.
СЛАВА УКРАЇНІ!