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 | Speeches | | |
The President of the Republic on the Ceremony of Conferring the Decorations of the Republic of Estonia on 23 February 2003
at the Kadriorg Art Museum
23.02.2003
Dear recipients of decorations!
Ladies and Gentlemen!
Tomorrow we will celebrate the 85th anniversary of the Republic of Estonia. This is a proud and festive moment, crowning the joint efforts and achievements of the people of Estonia.
I am delighted to bestow honours of the Republic of Estonia on people who have deserved it through their commitment, valour and diligence. It is your work, the work you have contributed to the benefit of Estonia and its people, which makes the day today so special. You have served people and, thus, also your country. Estonia is grateful to you.
Estonia as a state has never been alone and I hope will never be alone because we have numerous friends and advocates all over the world. We can be happy about it. Some of our friends are with us here today in order to receive state decorations of the Republic of Estonia. I recognize highly your respect for Estonia and your work for Estonia. This is high honour for us.
Today there are many women among the decorated persons. And our special recognition is addressed to you. Besides your home and children you have had enough will to consider the promotion of the Republic of Estonia very important. Believe me, this is significant also for your children and they will tell about your decoration to their children and grandchildren.
There are people of culture, actresses, teachers, and state officials among the decorated persons. You have maintained the Estonian language and culture, taught Estonian children, demonstrated that the Estonian thought and spirit have future. It is not really important what has been your job. The way you have done it is important. The fruits of your dedicated work will bring joy to many people for a long time.
We honour today Estonian citizens whose ultimate aspiration is to promote Estonia. From day to day and from year to year. It would not be enough to wish once in four years that Estonia as a nations state will survive, justice and order will govern, we would have work and children and better future.
You and many people committed to Estonia assure us that values significant for the people of Estonia will last, just like the Republic of Estonia will last.
On behalf of the Republic of Estonia I congratulate all of you and express our gratitude.
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