NNA - The Ukrainian Embassy in Beirut marked the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s restoration of independence, along with Ukraine’s Defenders and Defenders Day, during an official ceremony held in Beirut on October 1.

The event was attended by Information Minister Paul Morcos, representing the Presidents of the Republic and the Council of Ministers, along with MPs Elias Estephan, Bilal Abdullah, Paula Yacoubian and Waddah Sadek; Beirut Governor Marwan Abboud; Beirut Municipal Council President Ibrahim Zaidan; Greek Orthodox Archbishop of Beirut and its Dependencies Elias Audi; representatives of the Lebanese Army and security agencies; members of the diplomatic corps; business and civil society representatives; and members of the Ukrainian community in Lebanon.

According to an embassy statement, the ceremony highlighted Ukraine’s centuries-long struggle for freedom and statehood, noting that hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians continue to defend their country’s independence, sovereignty and future.

A minute of silence was observed in tribute to Ukrainian defenders who lost their lives protecting their homeland, as well as Lebanese Army personnel who died in the line of duty. The embassy said the gesture reflected the human bond between the Lebanese and Ukrainian peoples and their shared respect for those who sacrificed their lives for their countries.

In his address, Ukrainian Ambassador Roman Horiainov highlighted the sacrifices made by Ukrainians in defending their right to freely determine their future and maintain their independence. He expressed appreciation to Lebanon and to Ukraine’s friends for their solidarity and support amid the ongoing Russian full-scale war against Ukraine.

"Thirty-five years after restoring its independence, the Ukrainian people continue to defend it," Horiainov said, thanking those defending Ukraine and honoring those who sacrificed their lives for its freedom and independence.

The embassy also thanked Lebanese and foreign friends, partners and members of the Ukrainian community who attended the event, as well as the sponsors whose support contributed to its success.

The ceremony concluded with a reaffirmation of the commitment to defending Ukraine’s independence and a tribute to the country’s defenders.