World leaders mark Poland's May 3 Constitution anniversary

Numerous world leaders including US President Donald Trump, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Hungarian President Janos Ader on Sunday congratulated Polish head of state Andrzej Duda on the 229th anniversary of Poland 1791 May 3rd Constitution.

In his congratulatory message, Trump wrote that the May 3rd Constitution reflected the community of values between the US and Poland, adding that these values underlie both countries' relations today.

Steinmeier recalled his visits to Poland on the occasions of the 80th anniversary of the outbreak of World War II (Sept. 1) and International Holocaust Remembrance Day (Jan. 27), and expressed hope for the international community's victory over the coronavirus epidemic.

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda wrote that the May 3rd Constitution lay the foundations under lasting bonds between his country and Poland, and inspired many generation to struggle for freedom and independence.

Russia President Vladimir Putin wished the Polish people growth and prosperity, and conveyed personal wishes of health and success to the Polish president.

Italian President Sergio Mattarella mentioned the friendly relations between Italy and Poland, and thanked for the contribution of Polish forces in the liberation of Italy during World War II.

Korean President Moon Jae-in expressed hope for a deeper strategic partnership between Korea and Poland, also in combatting the coronavirus epidemic.

Irish President Michael D. Higgins expressed his country's solidarity with the democratic values contained in the May 3rd Constitution, and readiness to combat the coronavirus epidemic.

Ader wrote that Poland and Hungary had a long history of friendship, which was also visible in the present situation caused by the epidemic.

Wishes were also extended by, among others, Pope Francis and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.