You're reading: English-language translation of Yanukovych’s New Year’s message to Ukraine

 Editor's Note: The following is from President Viktor Yanukovych's official website here.

 Dear compatriots!

In several minutes we will meet new 2013 year. Everyone has his own hopes and expectations for it.

The passing year brought new achievements to our country. Ukraine successfully held EURO 2012 at the highest level thus inscribing its name in the history of European football.

Dear compatriots!

The next, 2013 year should become a year of development and social justice. All branches of power must ensure maximal social effect from economic growth and legal transformations.

The beginning of work of the renewed composition of the Verkhovna Rada and the Government provides opportunities for constructive cooperation of all major political forces for the benefit of Ukraine.

The protection of national dignity should become the main principle of our foreign policy, while unity and harmony of Ukrainian people should be the key response to the new challenges of economic crisis.

I am confident that we can unite for our happy future.

For we are a uniform people, we are a great country.

I sincerely wish every family health; let your dreams and hopes come true.

Let peace and welfare always be in your homes!

Happy New Year!