Kyiv, 14 June 2023 (TDI): Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warmly welcomed Mariam Almheiri, United Arab Emirates (UAE) Minister for Climate Change and Environment, on June 11. Climate Change Minister Mariam Almheiri is heading a diplomatic delegation of the UAE to visit Ukraine.
Humanitarian Aid and Assistance to Ukraine
President Zelensky expressed his gratitude to the UAE for their continuous support of the Ukrainian nation and humanitarian assistance. They discussed the implementation of the Ukrainian Peace Formula and the plan for Ukraine’s reconstruction.
President Zelensky highlighted the investment opportunities for the UAE business circles and industries in Ukraine. These investments will ultimately help in the implementation of these above-mentioned plans.
Additionally, they noted the strategies to meet the humanitarian needs following the Ukraine crisis and its impacts, especially on children.
Also Read: UAE sends emergency relief to Ukraine
Focus on Children and Education
UAE’s Climate Change Minister Mariam Almheiri had a meeting with Olena Zelenska, First Lady of Ukraine and Chairwoman of the Olena Zelenska Foundation. During the meeting, they considered new plans to reconstruct and restore the damaged schools and hospitals in Ukraine.
UAE had allocated US$4 million to the “Family-Type Orphanages” project under the Zelenska Foundation. This project is aimed to build 10 buildings that can accommodate 100 children. They also assessed the new developments regarding this project.
Moreover, UAE donated 2,500 computers to Ukrainian students, so that they can continue their studies and seek remote education.
As a part of her visit, she met with Ukraine’s Prime Minister, Denys Shmyhal. They deliberated on ways to foster their cooperation in various sectors of mutual interests. The Ukrainian PM expressed that they are willing to participate in COP28, which is to be held in Dubai Expo City later this year.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation
UAE Climate Change Minister Mariam Almheiri also engaged with Yulia Svyrydenko, Ukraine’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy.
The two sides explored ways to foster collaboration in trade and investment in various fields of strategic importance. Moreover, their discussions were focused on investments in the fields of energy, infrastructure, agriculture, and healthcare.
A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed between Contango, an ADQ partner, and the Ukrainian State Property Fund, alongside the meeting.
Both sides showed their determination to boost cooperation in economic resources and investment potentials in promoting sustainable development between the two sides.
