The 2012 European Football Championship became a real event that unites Ukraine and held in an atmosphere of unity and brotherhood, according to Information Centre Ukraine-2012. This was stressed by the Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych in his opening remarks, which were prepared for the concluding press conference that was to take place on 4 July.
"Ukrainians have surpassed all expectations and proved to be hospitable, friendly and sincere people. Ukraine has passed well an exam to host the football championship and has proven it is able to hold world-class events. On the streets of cities that held the championship there was an atmosphere of brotherhood and unity. It really was a football festival that united the country", said Viktor Yanukovych. He added that the tournament had convinced the world that Ukrainians are open and tolerant and Ukraine is a modern state.
"Euro-2012 has given our country invaluable experience of preparations and holding of activities on a world scale – including in terms of compliance with safety and order. This holiday will become Ukraine’s best visiting card for inviting tourists to our country and attracting new investment for further development. The championship broke many stereotypes that certain world media built around our country, and showed the world a welcoming, modern, secure Ukraine", the President of Ukraine said summing up.
