- September 5, 2024
- 6:37 pm
- Israel
Ukrainian Ambassador to Israel Yevhen Korniychuk recently met with Haifa Mayor Yona Yahav at his invitation. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss further strengthening of the twinning relations between the cities of Haifa and Odessa, which have significant historical and cultural value.
This is reported by Embassy of Ukraine in Israel September 4, 2024.
Korniychuk conveyed an official invitation from Odessa Mayor Gennady Trukhanov to invite Yahav to Odessa. This gesture shows how important the ties are between these two port cities, which share similar historical and cultural roots and also face common challenges in the modern world.
The history of the twinning between Haifa and Odessa dates back to 1992, when, following the collapse of the Soviet Union, the two cities officially became sister cities. This alliance was based on mutual recognition and respect for the cultural, historical and social ties that exist between the peoples of Ukraine and Israel. For Odessa and Haifa, this twinning has opened up new opportunities for cultural exchange, economic cooperation and deepening ties between the two countries. It is important to note that both Ukraine and Israel face challenges posed by the common threat of Russian aggression. Russia continues to support Israel’s enemies, such as Iran and the terrorist organizations Hezbollah and Hamas, making cooperation between the two countries even more necessary.
One of the key aspects of this meeting was the discussion of an important humanitarian topic related to providing shelters for civilians in wartime. Israel, as a country with extensive experience in protecting civilians from external threats, shared its knowledge in this area with Ukraine. Methods for creating effective shelters, training specialists such as psychologists who help people cope with trauma and stress during conflicts were discussed. These issues are especially relevant for Ukraine in the context of ongoing Russian aggression, which began in 2022.
In addition, the issue of symbolic support for Ukraine from Israel was raised. The Ukrainian Ambassador expressed gratitude to the Haifa City Hall for their initiative to illuminate the City Hall in the colors of the Ukrainian flag in honor of Ukraine's Independence Day. This gesture is of great importance to the Ukrainian people, especially in such difficult times. Illuminating the building in the colors of the Ukrainian flag has become a symbol of solidarity and support from the Israelis, which helps strengthen relations between the two countries amid current global challenges.
Another important topic of discussion was the organization and holding of an exhibition in Haifa entitled “Refugees for the second time.” This exhibition is dedicated to the fates of Ukrainian refugees who have already faced forced migration twice: the first time during World War II, and the second time as a result of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. It is important to emphasize that many of these refugees ended up in Israel, which has become their second home, despite all the difficulties and challenges. The exhibition highlights their stories, highlighting the difficulties they faced, and also shows the resilience and courage of these people. It is also of great importance for understanding the current situation of Ukrainian refugees and their impact on cultural and social processes in Israel.
This exhibition, like the sister city relationship between Odessa and Haifa, plays an important role in strengthening cultural ties between Ukraine and Israel. It not only recalls the tragic events, but also highlights the importance of international solidarity in the face of global crises. In a situation where both Ukraine and Israel face serious threats – Ukraine from Russian aggression, and Israel from external enemies such as Hezbollah and Hamas – strengthening relations between the two countries is critical. Joint cultural projects such as the exhibition “Refugees for the Second Time” contribute to a deeper understanding of these threats and help promote ideas of mutual assistance and solidarity.
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