Our nations are bound together by a common aim and value of freedom. Every time we stood together, we changed history for good and won. Together, we are at least twice stronger - Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said in the wishes he extended to the Polish people on November 11, which is Poland's Independence Day. Earlier that day, the Ukrainian First Lady Olena Zelenska had sent her own best wishes to Poland too.
"On behalf of the Ukrainian people, I congratulate the President of Poland and the entire Polish people on the Republic of Poland's National Independence Day. May your independence be invincible and eternal," president Zelenskiy said on X. "Our nations are bound together by a common aim and value of freedom. Every time we stood together, we changed history for good and won. Together, we are at least twice stronger," he added. Zelenskiy assured that "Ukrainians will never lose gratitude to Poland and will always value its support during the most difficult time of Russian aggression". "The Polish people helped Ukraine withstand the attack. I am grateful for the respect shown to all Ukrainians who have been accepted into Poles' homes." "The strong partnership between our free nations makes both of us and our entire Europe stronger," the Ukrainian president underscored. "Ukraine and Poland are united in their will for freedom and we will always stand together. In the EU, NATO, and throughout our shared history."
To the post with best wishes, Zelenskiy attached a video of his videocall with his Polish counterpart Andrzej Duda.
"Our nations, together with all of Europe, have passed a great path, and whenever we were on the same side, we changed history for the better. Remarkable things are possible when Ukrainians and Poles are united by a common goal. As in the battles of Orsha and Zamość, and now, in the ongoing battle for the freedom of Ukraine, and consequently, Poland. We will win this battle because we value each other," the Ukrainian head of state said.
"I am grateful that Polish hearts felt the rhythm of Ukrainian hearts at that very moment and in the way it was needed. I am thankful that for the Polish people, values such as honor, freedom, and solidarity are truly fundamental. And I am grateful for the calm and respect for all our people whom you sheltered, sharing the warmth of the Polish home."
President Duda said that Poland would keep on supporting Ukraine in the fight against Russian aggression and on the path to NATO and European Union membership.
Duda also congratulated Zelenskiy on the EU Commission's decision to start negotiations on Ukraine's accession to the EU.
"I congratulate you on this progress and on the fact that despite the challenging military situation, you are fulfilling the next requirements on the path to the European Union. We not only cheer for you but will also support you, we will support your aspirations," the President of Poland said.
Wishes from Olena Zelenska
Earlier on Saturday, Ukraine's First Lady Olena Zelenska had sent Poland her best wishes on Independence Day.
"Happy Independence Day to our Polish friends! To dear colleague Agata Kornhauser-Duda, Andrzej Duda, and to all who value this most precious of treasures. Poland was the first to offer Ukraine a helping hand when our independence was in danger. This will forever stay in the hearts of all Ukrainian people" - Zelenska wrote on X on Saturday.
"Offering shelter to millions of Ukrainian children and adults, evacuation of orphans and those suffering from cancer was only a part of the Polish support," she added.
"I thank the Polish nation for strength and openness. I believe that an honest cooperation will serve as a reliable protection for the independence of our countries."
Źródło: TVN24 News in English, PAP, president.gov.ua
Źródło zdjęcia głównego: Sean Gallup/Getty Images