Dear Ukrainians, dear community,

I warmly congratulate you on the 34th anniversary of the restoration of our Independence! This holiday reminds us not only of the great historical event of 1991, but also of the immense price our people are paying today for the right to be free.

I say this because during three years of full-scale aggression, I had the honour of working in Kyiv. I will never forget the frosty evenings when the city was plunged into darkness after another massive shelling. Without light, without heat, under the sounds of sirens and the rumble of explosions, under the constant threat of missiles and “Shaheds,” Kyiv continued to live, to breathe, and to fight. People started generators, children did homework by the light of flashlights, and adults, after nights in shelters, found the strength to go to work in the morning.

Here in China, we have an important mission – to preserve and nurture Ukrainian identity, to unite and support each other. In a world where Ukraine is fighting for the right to exist, our voice and our unity are of special importance.

I still feel the warmth, support, and sincerity with which the Ukrainian community welcomed me on Chinese land. Today, more than ever, unity is needed among all our citizens regardless of ethnic origin, skin colour, religion, or political beliefs. We are one Ukrainian family united by love for our Homeland and the desire to see it free, democratic and prosperous.

I believe that together – in Kyiv, Beijing, Hong Kong, or anywhere in the world – we are bringing victory closer. Every contribution to our common cause – preserving culture, language, and traditions, helping our soldiers, or diplomatic efforts – makes us stronger.

Today, we celebrate not only the anniversary of our Independence, but also the strength we draw from one another, even far from our native land. Ukraine is each of us, wherever we are. And as long as we stand together, she will never lose her freedom.

Glory to Ukraine!