The state at all levels should contribute to the promotion of sports, and not just professional sports, Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych has said.

"The health of the nation and all Ukrainians is the foundation of a happy and long life. The state will do everything possible for every citizen at any spot in the country to have the chance to actively engage in physical education," the presidential press service quoted him as saying in an interview with the Olympic Arena all-Ukrainian analytical magazine.

He also stressed the need to find ways of encouraging Ukrainians to a healthy lifestyle and involve as many citizens as possible in mass sports.

"I want all Ukrainians, as far as they can, to participate in the promotion of sports in our country. I want parents to send their children to sports clubs, and I want the authorities to create the conditions to make these sports groups accessible. Sports should be supported at all levels," Yanukovych said.

As for strategic tasks, Yanukovych said that the National Olympic Committee, in cooperation with the government, should focus on the development of modern infrastructure for athletes.

The head of state also stressed the need to focus on the work with young people.