DUSHANBE, 23.01.2020. (NIAT Khovar) – Yesterday, Ukraine celebrated Unity Day. The Ukrainian Embassy in Tajikistan held a press conference to commemorate the occasion.

The Ambassador of Ukraine to Tajikistan Vasily Servatyuk told reporters about the history of this holiday, which was established in honor of the declaration of the Act of reunification of the Ukrainian People’s Republic and the Western Ukrainian People’s Republic into a single Ukrainian state on January 22, 1919. The union of the two republics was sealed by the Zluky Act.

“For the Ukrainian people, this is one of the most important holidays, which shows Ukraine’s desire for independence and sovereignty, the importance of love for the motherland and patriotism,” said Servatyuk.

The Ukrainian Ambassador also spoke about the relationship between Tajikistan and Ukraine, describing it as lively. “Representatives of Ukraine will take part in the Second High-Level International Conference on the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development, 2018-2028,” which will be held on June 18-20 this year in Dushanbe,” he noted, adding that a number of bilateral events, including consular consultations, are planned between the two states in 2020.

Last year, trade between the countries amounted to 37 million somoni. “This figure is unsatisfactory for both countries. Both states have work to do,” Servatyuk told reporters.

Tajik agricultural product exports to Ukraine significantly increased in 2019. “Ukrainians highly value the quality and environmental friendliness of Tajik agricultural products. I think that Tajik and Ukrainian entrepreneurs need to increase cooperation in this direction,” he said.

Servatyuk also expressed gratitude to the government of Tajikistan for its support in connection with the tragedy associated with the  crash of an aircraft carrying passengers from Tehran, and people who did not remain indifferent to the trouble of a friendly state.

Following the press conference, Servatyuk shared his impressions about Tajikistan. Prior to being appointed to serve in Tajikistan, Servatyuk had visited the country 30 years ago. Tajikistan has turned into a country of fountains and greenery, he said.

“I have visited many states, but Tajikistan is incomparable with any of them. Over the years, the Tajik people were able to preserve their originality, hospitality, kindness and, most importantly, culture,” he said.