Volodymyr Rybalkin, head of the Sviatohirsk CMA, spoke about the main areas of activity during the Second International Summit of Cities and Regions. This includes, in particular, reconstruction, restoration of housing and cooperation with partners.
“From June 5 to September 11, 2022, three out of 13 settlements in our community were under occupation. They are considered de-occupied. We returned to a land that was completely destroyed and completely destroyed. In fact, we have 1.5 thousand people who are now without homes. But for today, we have a recovery program. In a year and a half, we managed to sign memorandums and find cooperation with 23 international and 22 national organizations. There is a memorandum with sister cities, for example, Ishtan, Connecticut,” said Volodymyr Rybalkin.
Also, the head of Sviatohirsk CMA added that the community is currently being helped by both representatives of the world community and fellow citizens. In addition, a dialogue is ongoing with representatives of authorities at various levels in order to ensure the highest quality conditions for residents of de-occupied settlements.
“We have some experience after de-occupation. She was in full force. We have been rebuilding for a year and a half and are talking about a recovery strategy, measures, first steps for this community. Therefore, this should be shared with other people. Communicate with ministries, state representatives, because it is very important for us,” emphasized the head of Sviatohirsk CMA.
Volodymyr Rybalkin also drew attention to the fact that the Summit of Cities and Regions is important in this process. After all, at this event, representatives of state authorities, communities of Ukraine and foreign countries, as well as donor organizations can “find the best approach for the implementation of projects during communication and discussion of issues.”
See more in the video at the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZhFeEzJY_dc
