On the eve of National Flag Day and Ukraine's Independence Day, President Volodymyr Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska honored outstanding individuals with the National Legend of Ukraine award.
That's according to the president's press service, Ukrinform reports.
"This is respect. This is honor. This is dignity. It is how the state of Ukraine says thank you to its people, its heroes, its legends. Those among us and those we must appreciate. Those who, unfortunately, are no longer with us. We must remember them all - legends who inspire us, legends applauded by the world. And I would like us all to applaud our Ukrainian legends now," said Volodymyr Zelensky.
The president emphasized that, despite Russia's aggression, the values that form the foundation of the award remain unchanged.
Posthumous awards were presented to Serhiy Parajanov and Nina Matviienko.
Serhiy Parajanov was a Ukrainian-Armenian film director and screenwriter who created nearly 20 features and documentaries. His film Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors won 39 international awards and 28 prizes at world film festivals.
Nina Matviienko was a prominent singer known for her unique renditions of folk songs. She also engaged in literary work, acted in TV and radio plays, toured the USA, Canada, France, Poland, South Korea, Mexico, and across Latin America.
The National Legend of Ukraine award was established in 2021. Since then, the president has annually honored individuals who have contributed to the establishment of Ukraine's independence, defense, and development of economy, science, education, culture, art, sports, and healthcare, as well as charitable and public activities.
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