The official visit to Southern European countries by the President of the Ukrainian World Congress, Paul Grod, began with Portugal. Grod held a series of meetings in Lisbon and participated in community events.
On March 10, the UWC President joined the celebration of Taras Shevchenko’s 210th birthday anniversary. Paul Grod also stood in solidarity with Ukrainian activists at the weekly “Human Chain” rally in a bustling Lisbon square, highlighting the significance of continually raising awareness about Russia’s harrowing war in Ukraine.
Paul Grod met with Maryna Mykhailenko, Ukraine’s Ambassador to Portugal, and Diogo Leão, the Chairman of the Portugal-Ukraine Parliamentary Friendship Group. UWC President extended heartfelt thanks to the Ambassador and the Portuguese Parliament and citizens for their unwavering support of Ukraine amidst its relentless fight against genocidal Russian aggression.
UWC President Paul Grod and Pavlo Sadokha participated in a liturgy in support of Ukraine by Patriarch Rui Valério of Lisbon and Bishop Sus.
During a meeting after the liturgy with the patriarch, Paul Grod called upon his holiness Francis to support the people of Ukraine, by clearly calling Russia, the aggressor and Ukraine the victim. The patriarch was clear in his sermon in condemning Russian aggression.
Grod presented the patriarch with a symbolic candle holder, representing the suffering of the creative people and the hope which they hold. The Patriarch honored the UWC with a book about Lisbon’s patriarchs for their activities supporting Ukraine.
While visiting Portugal, UWC President Paul Grod recognized the exceptional efforts of the Union of Ukrainians in Portugal, led by President Pavlo Sadokha, in promoting Ukraine’s cause. He commended their leadership and support for the Ukrainian World Congress. The UWC expresses gratitude to the Ukrainian community in Portugal for their work and dedication to the Ukrainian cause and wishes them continued success.
The UWC President’s visit to the Divosvit Saturday School of the Ukrainian Association in Lisbon, Portugal, was marked by a delightful and welcoming ambiance. Paul Grod had the opportunity to connect with prominent members of the Ukrainian community.
The UWC President’s visit to South European countries will continue in Spain.
Photo: Sofiia Shovikova
