President of the Storting Masud Gharahkhani. Photo: Storting.
“Today we celebrate freedom and democracy”
President of the Storting Masud Gharahkhani spoke directly to the Chairman of the Ukrainian Parliament when he made a speech and laid a wreath at the statue of Christian Frederik on 17th May.
Ruslan Stefanchuk, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada, the Ukrainian Parliament, is currently on a three-day official visit to Norway, and is taking part in the 17th May celebrations at the Storting.
“Today we celebrate freedom and democracy. I hope that very soon, you and your people will be able to celebrate the same. Let me assure you, dear friend, that we all support your heroic fight for democracy, freedom, and peace,” said Masud Gharahkhani, President of the Storting, in his speech.
Mr Gharahkhani also made reference to the challenge that President Zelensky had laid down in the address he gave to MPs and the Government last year. Then, he expressed the wish that we should show Ukrainian refugees what we celebrate on 17th May. He also asked us to take good care of Ukraine’s future: the Ukrainian children who are celebrating today all over Norway rather than being in their war-torn country.
“I am immensely proud to be able to host our Ukrainian friends on this special day. I hope you will join me in wanting to show the Ukrainian children and adults what values we stand for, and that we stand united with them in their struggle,” continued Mr Gharahkhani.
Read the President of the Storting’s speech
Read the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada’s speech
Ruslan Stefantsjuk. Photo: Storting.