24 August 2016: Polish President at Independence Day in Ukraine
On Wednesday, August 24, Polish President Andrzej Duda arrived in Kiev to participate in anniversary celebration of Ukrainian independence. The ceremony celebrations of the 25th anniversary of independence were opened by a parade of about 4,000 soldiers of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the National Guard and the police. The parade had special column for veterans of current fighting with pro-Russian separatists. More than 200 military vehicles, including tanks, armoured personnel carriers, howitzers and rocket launchers participated in the ceremony. The parade went down the main street of Kiev, Khreshchatyk.
In a speech during the ceremony, President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko said “we won independence with our intellect, sweat and blood.” The President also referred to the current situation in Ukraine, stressing that Ukrainians chose their future when 25 years ago voted “yes” inan independence referendum
Poroshenko called Duda “a great friend of Ukraine” and thanked Poland for the support given during the conflict with Russia. “I express deep gratitude to the international community for comprehensive diplomatic and financial support, for the supply of non-lethal weapons and humanitarian aid, and I would like to thank you for sanctions against the aggressor” – addedPoroshenko.
Duda paid tribute to the fallen in the struggle for freedom and independence of Ukraine and stated that Poland will continue to support Ukraine. Polish President was invited by Poroshenko. During the visit, Presidents adopted a joint declaration and discussed peace in Ukraine, Ukrainian-Polish relations and Ukraine’s relation with the EU.
