By Waqar Naseem Wamiq

RIYADH — The Ukrainian community in Riyadh celebrated the 26th anniversary of their Independence and the National Day of their armed forces at Tuwaiq palace in the diplomatic quarters of Riyadh with zeal and zest.

Prince Muhammad Bin Abdulrahman, deputy governor of Riyadh Province, was the chief guest. Ukrainian Ambassador Vadym Vakhrushev and the senior Embassy officials warmly welcomed Prince Muhammad upon his arrival. National anthems of the two countires were played followed by the cake cutting ceremony.

Speaking on the occasion, Vakhrushev said, “Our independence was an expected outcome of our historic development, a joint victory won by multiple generations of Ukrainians with their great sacrifices, and as a result today we celebrate our National Army Day. Let us pay homage to our freedom fighters and thank our soldiers, security and police personnel for their sacrifices in resisting the aggression. As well this year we celebrate 100 years of the First Ukrainian State and the One 100th Anniversary of the Diplomatic Service of Ukraine,” the ambassador said.

Speaking about bilateral relations the envoy said, “I am very pleased to note that next year we shall celebrate the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries. The official visit of the President of Ukraine to Saudi Arabia in November 2017 and the fifth session of the joint intergovernmental committee on trade, economic and technical cooperation in April established a framework for enhancing cooperation between our countries and for bolstering the Ukrainian-Saudi ties. We truly value our friendship and partnership with Saudi Arabia, and I hope we will continue to strengthen those ties in the years to come,” he added.

The ambassador also mentioned about Holodomor. “This year also coincides with the 85th anniversary of one of the deadliest crimes of the 20th century. We appeal to all our international partners to make their own historic judgment and to make a decision by recognizing Holodomor as an act of genocide. Today we bow our heads to the memory of victims of Holodomor,” he said.

The ambassador concluded by stating, “We would like to preserve the dearest of what we have, children and families, peace and tranquility, jobs and prosperity, hope and belief. We know that only respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy and justice can accomplish that.”

The National Day reception also exhibited the paintings of Ukrainian artist Iryna Lytvynova, that was highly appreciated by the guests. The twin Ukrainian sisters Sofiya and stefaniya were among many others dressed in the traditional costumes of Ukraine. The twin sisters praised the cultural values of Saudi Arabia and described their residing in the Kingdom as a joyful experience.