You're reading: Yanukovych greets nation on Christmas, urges to seek path to peace and love

Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych has greeted Ukrainians on Christmas, which Eastern Orthodox churches celebrate on January 7.

“With all my heart I greet you on this great holiday of Christmas! On this day, the world saw the Savior, who bequeathed brotherly love and harmony to us all. Today, our big family of the Ukrainian people is asking the Lord to strengthen our faith and unity for building a happy and prosperous country,” the president said in his greeting.

According to the president, the adoption of Christianity 1025 years ago contributed to the spiritual development of the Ukrainian people and became the foundation for the country’s unity and statehood.

“On this blessed Christmas Day, I urge all of us to overcome differences together and find a path to peace and love,” Yanukovych said.