The presence of numerous foreign delegations at the celebrations in Kyiv on the occasion of the inauguration of the newly elected Ukrainian president is evidence of the international community's deep respect for Ukraine, President Victor Yanukovych has said.
"Your presence in the hall (of the Ukrainian House) is also convincing evidence of respect for Ukraine and the international community’s interest in cooperating with it," he said while opening a reception on the occasion of his inauguration as president in the Ukrainian House on Feb. 25.
Yanukovych said that such signs of openness and willingness to unite joint efforts were cause for pleasure.
The head of state noted that such attention obliged Ukraine to be reasonable and resolute in its actions, as, in his opinion, there was too little time to overcome the "huge" problems facing the country.
"As the newly elected president, I fully realize how difficult it will be to overcome the economic and social crisis that was triggered not only by the global crisis, but also by Ukrainian [factors]," Yanukovych said.
He said that this attention to Ukraine added strength and belief to the fact that by beginning to conduct deep reforms in all spheres of life, Ukrainian society and Ukraine would not be left alone in tackling problems.
"I strongly believe that with the help of a lot of our friends, my state will come to the path of stable economic development and social progress," he said.
The president’s speech was translated into English.
At the end of his speech, Yanukovych raised a glass of champagne and proposed a toast to "our common prosperity."
