Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, P.C., M.P., Prime Minister of Canada
August 24, 2016
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence:
“Today, we join the Ukrainian community—here in Canada and around the world—to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence.
“Canada is proud to have been the first western country to recognize Ukraine’s declaration of independence in 1991. The vibrant Ukrainian-Canadian community—nearly 1.3 million people strong—has contributed immeasurably to building Canada, and has helped forge a strong, enduring relationship between both of our countries.
“During my recent official visit to the country, I was reminded of our deep historical ties and our shared desire for a prosperous future for Ukrainians and Canadians. I was moved by the sacrifices that Ukrainians have made, and continue to make, for their freedom, democracy, and independence.
“As we mark this momentous occasion, we reiterate our strong support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Canada fully supports Ukraine as it takes important steps to bring greater security, prosperity, and economic independence to its people.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, Sophie and I wish everyone celebrating a happy Ukrainian Independence Day.
“Slava Ukraini!”
Déclaration du premier ministre du Canada à l’occasion de la Journée de l’indépendance ukrainienne
Le 24 août 2016
Ottawa (Ontario)
Le premier ministre Justin Trudeau a fait aujourd’hui la déclaration suivante à l’occasion du 25e anniversaire de l’indépendance de l’Ukraine :
« Aujourd’hui, nous nous joignons à la communauté ukrainienne au Canada et ailleurs dans le monde pour célébrer le 25e anniversaire de l’indépendance de l’Ukraine.
« Le Canada est fier d’avoir été le premier pays occidental à reconnaître la déclaration d’indépendance de l’Ukraine, en 1991. La dynamique communauté ukraino-canadienne, qui compte presque 1,3 million de personnes, a apporté une immense contribution à l’édification du Canada et a aidé à nouer une relation durable entre nos pays.
« Au cours de ma récente visite officielle dans ce pays, on m’a rappelé nos profonds liens historiques et notre volonté commune d’assurer un avenir prospère aux Ukrainiens et aux Canadiens. J’ai été touché par les sacrifices qu’ont faits les Ukrainiens et qu’ils font encore pour obtenir la liberté, la démocratie et l’indépendance.
« Au moment de souligner cette occasion importante, nous réitérons notre solide appui à la souveraineté et à l’intégrité territoriale de l’Ukraine. Le Canada appuie sans réserve les mesures importantes que prend l’Ukraine afin de procurer à sa population davantage de sécurité, de prospérité et d’indépendance économique.
« Au nom du gouvernement du Canada, Sophie et moi souhaitons à tous ceux qui la célèbrent une heureuse journée de l’indépendance ukrainienne.
« Slava Ukraïni! »
Barack Obama, President of the United States of America
Twenty-five years ago today, Ukraine declared its independence from the Soviet Union. On behalf of the American people, I’m proud to join the Ukrainian people in marking this historic anniversary. As we have been reminded in recent years, Ukraine’s path has not always been easy. From the hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians who linked arms in a great human chain in 1990 to the fallen heroes of the Maidan, realizing the dream of independence has called on the solidarity and sacrifice of the Ukrainian people. The people of the United States, including proud Ukrainian-Americans, have been honored to partner with Ukraine on this journey. Today, we reaffirm that the United States will continue to stand with the Ukrainian people as they protect their sovereignty and territorial integrity, embrace the vision of a strong and united Europe, and deepen their commitment to democracy, anti-corruption, and respect for human rights. I offer my best wishes to all the people of Ukraine. On this occasion, we are reminded that even in the most difficult moments, the glory and freedom of Ukraine—and the indomitable spirit of the Ukrainian people—lives on.
The Honourable Raynell Andreychuk, Senator – Saskatchewan
Senator Andreychuk marks the 25th Anniversary of Ukrainian Independence Day
OTTAWA, ON – Senator Andreychuk today marked the 25th Anniversary of Ukrainian Independence Day by reiterating the urgent need to deescalate the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.
“On August 24, 1991, the Ukrainian people asserted their independence and ignited a journey towards the formation of a sovereign state. Twenty five years later, renewed threats continue to challenge this journey,” said Senator Andreychuk, noting Russia’s ongoing military incursions in Ukraine.
Tension between the two nations further intensified last week when Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of plotting terrorist acts in an attempt to reclaim the annexed Crimean peninsula. Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko denied these accusations, and placed Ukrainian military personnel on “high alert.”
“Let us continue to unite in support of Ukraine as it strives to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and urge Russia to respect its obligations under international law.”
Background
- In November 2013, thousands of people united in protest in Kyiv’s independence square after negotiations for the Ukraine-European Union Association Agreement were suspended, in favour of strengthening economic ties with Russia.
- From February 18 to 20, 2014, violent clashes between protestors and armed forces in Kyiv’s independence square culminated in the deaths of over 100 people.
- On March 18, 2014, the results of a referendum led to the annexation of the Ukrainian territory of Crimea by the Russian Federation. The legitimacy of the referendum has been widely criticized by the international community.
- Beginning in March 2014, pro-Russian and anti-government protests erupted in eastern Ukraine. As protests escalated into armed conflict, Russian troops and artillery advanced near the border. Thousands have lost their lives as a result of the conflict, while millions have been forced to leave and remain displaced.
- Canada, the United States, the European Union and numerous international organizations have responded to Russia’s aggressive actions by imposing sanctions on Russian companies, individuals, government and military officials.
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Honourable Rona Ambrose, P.C., M.P, Leader of the Official Opposition
Rona Ambrose, Leader of the Official Opposition issues statement on Ukraine’s Independence Day
OTTAWA – August 24, 2016
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Rona Ambrose, Interim Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada and Leader of the Official Opposition, issued the following statement on Ukraine’s Independence Day:
“Twenty-five years ago today, Ukraine declared its independence from the Soviet Union. Overcoming a dark and difficult past, Ukrainians took their place among the free nations of the world.
“Canadians will always take pride in the fact that we were the first Western country to give our recognition to Ukraine’s independence. We are reminded of the strong and enduring friendship between our two countries, one that began 125 years ago with the first Ukrainians who settled in Canada.
“Ukraine’s historic anniversary is also a reminder of the strength, determination and courage of the Ukrainian people as they fight, once again, for the future of their country. Sadly, millions of Ukrainians will greet today’s milestone living under Russian military occupation in Crimea, Sevastopol and the Donbas region, or as refugees fleeing a war unleashed by Vladimir Putin.
“Canada has always stood with Ukraine, and never more than in this fight. Our previous Conservative Government’s support for Ukraine included deploying Canadian Forces trainers, providing non-lethal military aid and imposing severe sanctions against Russian officials and entities responsible for the war. Unfortunately, recent moves towards normalizing relations with Russia have put these measures in jeopardy.
“Now is not the time to step back.
“On this historic anniversary, I wish all celebrating a happy Independence Day.
“З Днем Незалежності України!”
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Рона Емброуз, Лідер Офіційної Опозиції, опублікувала заяву щодо Дня Незалежності України
Оттава – 24 серпня 2016
ДЛЯ НЕГАЙНОГО РОЗПОВСЮДЖЕННЯ
Рона Емброуз, тимчасовий лідер Консервативної Партії Канади та Лідер Офіційної Опозиції, опублікувала наступну заяву щодо Дня Незалежності України:
«Двадцять п’ять років тому Україна задекларувала свою незалежність від Радянського Союзу. У боротьбі з темним та тяжким минулим, українці зайняли своє місце серед вільних націй світу.
Канадці завжди пишатимуться тим, що були першою західною державою, яка визнала незалежність України. Ми шануємо міцну та довгу дружбу між нашими країнами, дружбу, яка почалася 125 років тому, коли перші українці оселилися в Канаді.
Ця історична річниця також нагадує нам про силу, цілеспрямованість та відвагу українського народу тоді, коли він знову бореться за майбутнє своєї країни. На жаль, мільйони українців зустрінуть сьогоднішню річницю, знаходячись під російською окупацією в Криму, Севастополі та Донбасі, або як біженці, змушені бігти від війни, яку розпочав Володимир Путін.
Канада завжди підтримувала Україну, а тим більше у цій боротьбі. В підтримку, що надавалася Україні попереднім Консервативним Урядом, входило надання інструкторів Канадської Армії та нелетальної військової допомоги, та запровадження жорстких санкцій проти російських чиновників та організацій, відповідальних за війну. На жаль, останні дії, спрямовані на нормалізацію відносин з Росією, ставлять попередні заходи під загрозу.
Зараз не час відступати.
У цю історичну річницю, я бажаю всім, хто святкує, щасливого Дня Незалежності.
З Днем Незалежності України!»
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Rona Ambrose, la chef de l’Opposition officielle, fait une déclaration sur le Jour de l’indépendance de l’Ukraine
OTTAWA – 24 août 2016
POUR DIFFUSION IMMÉDIATE
Rona Ambrose, la chef intérimaire du Parti conservateur du Canada et chef de l’Opposition officielle, a fait la déclaration suivante à l’occasion du Jour de l’indépendance de l’Ukraine :
« Il y a vingt-cinq ans aujourd’hui, l’Ukraine a proclamé son indépendance de l’Union soviétique. Surmontant un passé sombre et difficile, les Ukrainiens ont pris leur place parmi les nations libres du monde.
« Les Canadiens seront toujours fiers du fait que nous avons été le premier pays occidental à reconnaître l’indépendance de l’Ukraine. Cela nous rappelle l’amitié durable qui existe entre nos deux pays, une amitié qui a commencé il y a 125 ans, lorsque les premiers Ukrainiens sont venus s’établir au Canada.
« Cet anniversaire historique pour l’Ukraine nous rappelle également la force, la détermination et le courage de la population ukrainienne alors qu’elle se bat, une fois de plus, pour l’avenir de son pays. Malheureusement, des millions d’Ukrainiens vont souligner cette journée sous l’occupation militaire russe en Crimée, à Sébastopol et dans la région de Donbas, ou comme réfugiés fuyant une guerre déclenchée par Vladimir Poutine.
« Le Canada a toujours été aux côtés de l’Ukraine, aujourd’hui plus que jamais. Le soutien de notre gouvernement conservateur précédent à l’Ukraine comprenait notamment le déploiement de formateurs de Forces canadiennes, l’offre d’une aide militaire non létale et l’imposition de sanctions sévères contre des responsables et des entités russes qui soutiennent la guerre. Malheureusement, la récente volonté de normaliser les relations avec la Russie met ces mesures en péril.
« Ce n’est pas le moment de faire marche arrière.
« En cet anniversaire historique, je souhaite à tous ceux qui célèbrent cet événement un joyeux Jour de l’indépendance.
Днем Незалежності України ! »
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Honourable Kathleen Wynne, MPP, Premier of Ontario
August 24, 2016
A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM THE PREMIER
On behalf of the Government of Ontario, I am delighted to extend warm greetings to all those commemorating the 25th anniversary of Ukraine’s Independence.
As Ontarians, we take great pride in the special relationship that we share with Ukraine and its people. The people of Ontario, along with other Canadians, have worked to help build a stable democracy and economy in Ukraine. Most recently, the Government of Ontario has taken steps to support the Ukrainian people as they defend their democracy and human rights.
As we come together today to commemorate Ukraine’s independence, our thoughts are with the Ukrainian people, who continue to do everything possible to defend their independence — an independence that was so painstakingly earned 25 years ago.
The Ontario government is firm in our support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. We stand with the international community in our commitment to ending foreign aggression and intervention in Ukraine to ensure its freedom, democracy and independence.
I stand in solidarity with you and all those who seek a peaceful, democratic and independent path for Ukraine.
Slava Ukraini!
Kathleen Wynne
Premier
Arif Virani, M.P. – Parkdale-High Park
Indepenence Day of Ukraine
August 24, 2016
As the Member of Parliament of Parkdale – High Park, I want to wish all Ukrainians a Happy 25th Independence Day! With one of the largest populations of Ukrainian Canadians in Canada, the riding of Parkdale – High Park has been enriched by the presence of thousands of Ukrainians. Thank you for your significant contributions to our community, our city, and our country.
Happy Independence Day!
Arif Virani, M.P.
Parkdale—High Park
To read Mr. Virani’s statement in the House of Commons, please click here
Cathay Wagantall, M.P. – Yorkton-Melville
Yorkton-Melville has the largest Ukrainian-Canadian population in Canada and today we all join them in celebrating the 25th anniversary of Ukrainian independence. Canada and Ukraine have a deep historical tie and the Ukrainian community in Canada has grown to a vibrant and important part of our country, with more than 1.3 million people. However, we cannot forget the importance of supporting Ukraine itself. I stand with Ukrainian sovereignty and independence and will work to ensure Canada never steps back from our commitment to Ukrainian success and independence.
James Bezan, M.P. – Selkirk-Interlake
Bezan Commemorates Ukraine’s Independence Day
8/24/2016
James Bezan, Member of Parliament for Selkirk-Interlake-Eastman and the Official Opposition’s National Defence Critic, today issued the following statement marking the 25th anniversary of Ukraine’s Independence:
“A quarter of a century ago today Ukraine separated from the Soviet Union, officially declaring itself a sovereign nation. After a lengthy period under the shadow of Soviet communism, Ukraine would break free and join the rest of the democratic world. Today, we celebrate this Independence Day to remember the history, people, and traditions of Ukraine.
In one of Canada’s proudest moments during the cessation of the cold war, we were the first western country to recognize Ukraine’s independence. This would enshrine a bi-lateral partnership rooted in the 1.2 million ethnic Ukrainians that live in Canada today.
In the face of continued Russian aggression, the people of Ukraine continue to fight for their land, their country, and their home. Unlike hundreds of nations around the globe, Ukraine’s independence is not rooted in any sense of certainty. With over 10,000 dead and over a million Ukrainians displaced, the war taking place in Eastern Ukraine has no clear end in sight.
The Russian Federation under Vladimir Putin has opted to follow a path of Soviet era aggression, illegally annexing the sovereign Ukrainian territory of Crimea. As millions of Ukrainians around the world celebrate their nation’s independence, thousands more are continuing to fight to maintain it along their eastern border.
Canada must now, more than ever, remember the principles that guided us in our decision to recognize a sovereign Ukraine 25 years ago. We must be their friend, ally, and partner in the fight against Russian Imperialism. Now is the time to act, and show the rest of the international community that we stand for the principles of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. We take these actions as nation because it is simply right to do so.
I continue to stand with the people of Ukraine, and call on the Government of Canada to never recognize Crimea as sovereignty Russian territory.
On this historic anniversary, I wish all celebrating a happy Independence Day.
З Днем Незалежності України!”
Her Worship Bonnie Crombie, Mayor of Mississauga
For Immediate Release
August 24th, 2016
Statement by Mayor Bonnie Crombie Marking Ukrainian Independence Day
“On behalf of the City of Mississauga and Members of Council, I proudly join with local Ukrainian families to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence.
“Today, Canada and Ukraine enjoy a strong and proud relationship that thrives in communities across our nation. The strength of this bond is especially evident in places like Mississauga.
“Mississauga has an important relationship with Ukraine. We have an active and engaged Ukrainian population which continues to invest back in our City as committed public servants, renowned academics, compassionate volunteers, and successful business owners.
“The Ukrainian pavilion continues to be a popular destination at Mississauga’s Carassauga festival every year and Mississauga Celebration Square remains a popular destination for Ukrainian cultural festivities. Mississauga is also home to St. Mary’s Dormition Ukrainian Church, which stands as a testament of the importance of the Ukrainian community.
“I look forward to further promoting the exchange of knowledge and best practices and celebrating a far greater appreciate and understanding of the enriching cultural traditions and shared values of Canada and Ukraine.
“On a personal level, I cherish my family’s own Ukrainian heritage. My maternal grandmother was born in the Ukraine.
“Once again, I join with Mississauga’s Ukrainian community to mark Ukrainian Independence Day. It is my hope that the bond between Mississauga and Ukrainian communities grows even stronger.
“Slava Ukraini!”
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