Luncheon Hosted by the Ambassador of Canada to Ukraine
for the Canadian-Ukrainian Community and
the Canadian Business Club

Kyiv, Ukraine, Friday, April 24, 2009

We are here to discuss business ties, of course, but beyond these ties are bonds of friendship and solidarity that we have forged throughout our histories.

Bonds that date back to the first waves of Ukrainian immigration to Canada toward the end of the 19^th century, especially to the Western prairies.

Bonds that grew stronger with the arrival of thousands of Ukrainians who fled from famine, oppression and tyranny in the last century.

Today, there are over one million Canadians of Ukrainian origin. It is estimated to be the largest Ukrainian population in the world outside of Ukraine and Russia.

After the fall of the Soviet Union and in the early days of Ukraine’s independence, Canadians—many of Ukrainian descent—saw in the transition toward democracy an opportunity to contribute to the emergence of a country that had rediscovered its passion for the future.

The variety of areas in which these Canadians worked to promote Ukraine’s development is impressive: from law to commerce, education, technical assistance and humanitarian work.

Since 1991, Canada has made efforts and provided resources to support Ukraine in its determination to take hold of its destiny and make its voice heard on the global stage.

But just as it started to lay its foundations and carve a place for itself in the global economy, the international financial markets collapsed.

This crisis has plunged every country in the world into economic turmoil and has been even tougher on emerging economies like yours.

Faced with this global crisis, we need to be wary of the danger of withdrawing and isolating ourselves. In these uncertain times, it is more important than ever to rely on co-operation and exchange, as you have already been doing for a number of years.

It is important for Canadians and Ukrainians to work together to take a global and concerted approach in light of the current challenges.

I would also like to congratulate the Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce on the opening of its office in Kyiv.

The Ukrainian community in Canada and the Canadian community in Ukraine are a collective treasure for both of our countries. But more than that, they are a sign of friendship and of hope.

May this discussion begin on a promise of openness and hope for the future.

I am anxious to hear about the business opportunities on the horizon and your suggestions on how to meet the challenges Ukraine is facing.