Today is the 105th anniversary of the Restoration of the State of Lithuania. The Ukrainian Canadian community extends its greetings and congratulations to the Lithuanian community in Canada, and to the Lithuanian people.
The Lithuanian and Ukrainian people are tied together by the bonds of friendship going back centuries. We share a deep commitment to liberty, democracy and independence. Oppressed by the same tyranny, we know too well the great cost that our peoples paid for freedom. Together, we endured decades of Russian and Soviet Communist occupation. Together our peoples rose up against Soviet Russian tyranny and secured our inalienable right to independence. We know that we must cherish that freedom.
Today as the Ukrainian people fight bravely, again defending their country from Russian colonialism, we express our gratitude to the Lithuanian people, the State of Lithuania, and the Lithuanian community in Canada for their steadfast and unwavering support of Ukraine.
The Lithuanian people have delivered military and economic aid to Ukraine. They have welcomed into their homes Ukrainians seeking refuge from the ravages of Russia’s war. They have provided political, diplomatic and humanitarian support. Around international tables, Ukraine relies on the strong voice of Lithuania. For this support and assistance, we will be eternally grateful. With true, committed friends like the Lithuanian people, the Ukrainian people will be victorious.
On this momentous day in the history of Lithuania, the Ukrainian Canadian Congress congratulates our Lithuanian brothers and sisters. Вітаємо!