Ukraine-UK Unity: Ambassador Martin Harris Commemorates St. Andrew’s Day
Ambassador Martin Harris, in a landmark moment on November 30, 2023, extended warm wishes to Ukraine on St. Andrew’s Day, emphasizing the historical ties of this celebration and the unique joint observance by Ukrainians and Scots. The article delves into the ambassador’s distinguished career, the significance of the first-ever shared celebration, and the crucial support extended by the UK to Ukraine in times of adversity.
Historic Celebration and Bilateral Bonds Strengthened
On November 30, 2023, marked a significant moment for Ukraine as Ambassador Martin Harris of the United Kingdom extended greetings on the feast day of Saint Apostle Andrew the First-Called. Recording his felicitations against the backdrop of St. Andrew’s Church in Kyiv, he emphasized the historical connection of this celebration to the founding of Kyiv and the unique observance of this day by both Ukrainians and Scots.
According to the ambassador, standing beside St. Andrew’s Church, he honors the place where, according to legend, Saint Andrew heralded the establishment of Kyiv. “Today, Ukrainians and Scots celebrate Saint Andrew together. With Andrew! Happy St. Andrew’s Day!” declared the ambassador, evoking warm sentiments among Ukrainians.
The festive spirit is elevated due to the special context – the first-ever joint celebration of Saint Andrew by Ukrainians and Scots in history. At this moment, it is crucial to highlight the importance and support that Ukraine receives from the United Kingdom during these challenging times.
Martin Harris, appointed Her Majesty’s Ambassador to Ukraine in September 2023, is a recognized diplomat with extensive experience. Commencing his career in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1991, he held crucial positions in various countries, including Romania, Russia, and Ukraine.
His tenure in Kyiv is notably distinguished, where he led the Ambassador’s representation and fulfilled duties as Consul General. Additionally, Harris worked in Moscow, overseeing the British technical assistance program in Russia.
From 2014 to 2017, he served as Minister and Deputy Ambassador at the Embassy of the United Kingdom in Moscow. From 2017 to 2022, he headed the Department for Eastern Europe and Central Asia in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In 2023, he was awarded the Order of St. Michael and St. George.
It is essential to note that Martin Harris is not only a diplomat but also a recognized officer of the Order of the British Empire and a Knight Commander of the Order of St. Michael and St. George.
Ukraine expresses deep gratitude to the Ambassador for his support and humane attention during these challenging wartime circumstances. Wishing him a successful period of service in Ukraine and sincere congratulations on St. Andrew’s Day