PRESIDENT OF UKRAINE

July   4,  2008

Kyiv

Your Excellency,

On behalf of the people of Ukraine and my personal behalf let me cordially greet you on the occasion of your national holiday – the Independence Day.

The ideas of equality of rights and opportunities, of open and democratic society, of respect to human rights formulated by the founding fathers of the American nation in 1776 were embodied in the bulwark of freedom that the United States have become.

Since Ukraine’s independence in 1991 our states laid solid ground for bilateral relations that reached the level of strategic partnership. We highly appreciate US support in issues related to implementation of foreign policy priorities of Ukraine, in particular integration into Euro Atlantic structures, WTO accession, international recognition of the Holodomor of 1932-1933 in Ukraine, ensuring energy security.

I recall our April meeting in Kyiv with great pleasure. Its frank character once again demonstrated that the United States continue to share Ukraine’s international policies, as well as strongly support the choice of the Ukrainian people towards further successful development of civil society, democratic institutions and market economy.

Availing myself of this opportunity I would like to wish you, Mr. President, strong health, wellbeing, the best of luck and new achievements in your responsible state activity as well as peace and prosperity to the friendly American nation.

With deep respect,

Cordially (handwritten)

Signature (handwritten)

Victor Yuschenko

His Excellency

George W. Bush

President of the United States

Washington DC