Conference dedicated to Ukraine takes place in Romania

The Ukrainians of Romania – culture, traditions, the present conference was held in Romanian Timișoara. The European Congress of Ukrainians, local Romanian authorities, representatives of neighboring oblasts of Ukraine, non-governmental organizations supporting refugees, and representatives of ethnic minorities attended the event. 

“Despite the brutal reality, we should not forget that Romania was the first country to support Ukraine and the Ukrainian people since the beginning of the full-scale invasion,” the head of the Union of Ukrainians in Romania (UUR) Nicolae-Miroslav Petrețchi said and expressed his gratitude to all friends of Ukraine.

Leaders of the UWC member communities and organizations – Zenon Koval (France), Jaroszlava Hartyányi (Hungary), Miroslav Hočak (Serbia), Ihor Chocholak (Belgium) and others – discussed Ukraine diaspora’s participation in supporting Ukraine. Participants discussed multiculturalism and the harmonious coexistence of Ukrainians with the local populations. The speakers also emphasized the role of ethnic minorities in promoting tolerance, unity, and solidarity.

“Guests from Ukraine expressed their gratitude and presented diplomas and awards as a sign of gratitude to the Romanian side for the humanitarian aid provided. They emphasized that Ukraine is resisting, but called for further support for the war-torn country,” the organizers concluded.

The conference took place within the framework of the festival of culture and traditions of Ukraine. Representatives of Ukrainians from six countries gathered in the city of Timişoara.

“The Ukrainian festival has become a powerful and united response of the community to the challenges and difficulties that Ukrainians are currently facing,” the Union of Ukrainians of Romania stated.

Dozens of artistic ensembles from Romania took part, and, in particular, artists from Serbia. “The festival, in which many artistic ensembles took part, went beyond the cultural dimension, becoming a symbol of solidarity and friendship with the Ukrainian community,” the organizers added.