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Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych thanked everyone who has shown compassion and generosity to orphans on St. Nicholas Day.

The president said this in the greetings posted on his official Web site on Wednesday.

"Today, we turn to St. Nicholas, in the hope of his grace and mercy, and children are eagerly anticipating the fulfillment of the most cherished desires by their patron. This holiday has long been a symbol of generosity, compassion, and love of neighbor. I am grateful to everyone who has shown these qualities in full especially in relation to children deprived of parental care and attention, and children with disabilities," the statement reads.

"May goodness and mercy unite us now and always for the sake of a happy future for our children and Ukraine. I sincerely wish you all health, happiness and spiritual grace," Yanukovych said.