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05.11.2024
Five Ukrainian communities are actively developing cooperation in the United States
These days, five Ukrainian communities – Kherson, Mykolaiv, Zlatopil, Poltava, and Ivano-Frankivsk – are actively developing cooperation in the United States. Thanks to a nomination from Cities4Cities | United4Ukraine, these communities have been given the opportunity to participate in the Open World program funded by the US Congress.
Representatives from each community – Tetiana Bardina, Mykola Baksheiev, Vitaliy Belobrov, Ihor Filipov and Ihor Popadiuk – have a busy schedule, including
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working with U.S. senators and congressmen;
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sharing experience in emergency management with the President of the Omaha City Council, Nebraska;
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meetings with representatives of one of the Buffett family foundations;
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studying the experience of a company that develops development strategies for municipalities.
The strategic planning process is particularly impressive: for a city of 200,000 people, the development of a Development Strategy takes 18 months and includes seven stages with local residents involved at each stage.
The delegation also visited the Arlington National Military Cemetery in Washington, D.C., which was an important emotional experience.
Deputy Mayor of Poltava Tetiana Bardina said: “This is not just a burial place, but a memorial that creates a space to honor heroes. Ukraine needs to form its own vision of such a space, a place that would reflect the honor and gratitude to our heroes.”
Participants strive to strengthen international ties and make Ukraine’s voice even louder on the international stage.
“Open World” is a unique program established in 1999 by the U.S. Congress to strengthen international relations and promote cultural exchange between the United States and other countries, including Ukraine. In Ukraine, the program has been operating since 2003, providing opportunities for Ukrainian leaders to visit the United States, share experiences, and create new partnerships.
It is the only program that operates within the legislative branch of the U.S. government and is funded by Congress. It is administered by the American Councils for International Education with the support of the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine. Program participants have the opportunity to immerse themselves in American public life, meet with representatives of various levels of government, business and NGOs, which helps strengthen ties between the two countries.