Fellow compatriots!

On behalf of the Government, I congratulate you on the Day of Christianization of Kievan Rus-Ukraine!

The baptism of the Kievan Rus in 988 had become a landmark event in the history of the whole of Europe. The glorious pro-Ukrainian state, one of the most powerful forces in the European world, joined the family of Christian nations. This event had become one of the most determinant for the Ukrainian people during our entire history.

Chosen by the Grand Prince Volodymyr Christianity of the Eastern rite up to this day has been preserved as the basic element of the world outlook, as well as the ethical and moral system of Ukrainians. Therefore, for the Government and the entire Ukrainian society, the receipt of the tomos of autocephaly of the Orthodox Church and the rise of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine was of paramount importance. This breakthrough event will definitely contribute to the further consolidation of Orthodoxy as the essential spiritual guide for the Ukrainian people.

Hence, I congratulate all the citizens of Ukraine on this outstanding event! I wish you good health, prosperity and happiness! May peace and harmony reign in your families and our whole country!

Prime Minister of Ukraine                                                  Volodymyr GROYSMAN