The Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky marked Poland’s special day by posting a spontaneous video on social media, Polish state news agency PAP reported.
Addressing the Polish nation in the Polish language, Zelensky said: “Dear Poland, your regained independence is 104 years old today and here are my 104 words for you.”
He added that Ukraine and Poland “are together.”
“You are our sister. Our relations have fared variously in the past but we are relatives, we are free,” Ukraine’s president stressed.
Zelensky also stated: “When we met our old, shared foe again, Poland was right beside us. Ukrainians will always remember it.”
He added: “They will remember how you welcomed us, how you are helping us. Polish people are our allies, your country - our sister. Your friendship forever. Our friendship forever. Our love forever. Together we shall be victorious.”
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal also recorded an Independence Day message to Poland.
In a video posted on Twitter on Friday morning, he said in the Polish language: “We, Ukrainians and Poles, know the price of independence.”
Shmyhal also tweeted in Polish: “On behalf of the government of Ukraine and my own, I wish the Polish Nation prosperity and peace on your Independence Day!”
He added: “You have achieved your freedom and independence through the heroism and sacrifice of many generations. Today you are supporting us. Thank you, Prime Minister Morawiecki!”
Ukraine’s First Lady Olena Zelenska tweeted: “Polish people support Ukrainians as true friends, allies and family. And we are extremely grateful for that. Thank you for incredible help and hospitality.”
She added: “Congratulations on the Independence Day, Poland! Our reliable, friendly shoulder will always be there when you need it.”
Ukraine's Embassy to Poland, meanwhile, published a touching video titled Thank you, Poland!, the eurointegration.com.ua website reported.
"We have prepared it as a sign of our sincere gratitude for your support", said the Ukrainian Ambassador Vasyl Zvarych.
The video, created by a Ukrainian director, tells the story of a Ukrainian family that found refuge in Poland after fleeing the war, according to officials.
Poland regained independence on November 11, 1918, the day World War I ended, after 123 years of partition by Russia, Austria and Prussia.
One of the highlights of this year's festivities will be the opening of a new Mausoleum of the Polish Presidents-in-Exile.
Friday is day 261 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
(pm)
Source: PAP, onet.pl, Instagram, eurointegration.com.ua