Ukraine to open Embassy in Australia (04/13/03)

Ukraine to open Embassy in Australia

ESSENDON, Australia - Ukraine will strengthen diplomatic ties with Australia and will open an Embassy of Ukraine in Canberra, reported the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organizations.

Chargé d'Affaires Oleksander Mischenko was to arrive from Ukraine in Canberra on April 9 to make the necessary arrangements for the opening of the Embassy.

By establishing the Embassy, Ukraine has confirmed the importance it places on Australia-Ukraine relations and the region. Potential bilateral business, as well as commercial, education and cultural activities, are very much on the agenda.

The Australian Federation of Ukrainian Oganizations (AFUO) noted in a press release dated April 8 that it welcomes this major step by Ukraine in increasing its presence in Australia. It also looks forward to promoting enhanced relations between Australia and Ukraine.

"By opening its Embassy, Ukraine is sending a clear signal that there is potential for greater economic benefits," Stefan Romaniw, chairman of the AFUO said.

"The Ukrainian community in Australia is a model community. It has integrated well, it has promoted Australian Ukrainian relations. It now takes pride in the fact that Ukraine's diplomatic presence in Australia will be on par with other major nations," Mr. Romaniw added.

"This decision by Ukraine has obviously not been made lightly and forms part of a strategic approach by Ukraine in seeking new markets," he said.

"The AFUO now calls on Australia to take a major step in increasing diplomatic relations with Ukraine. Since the fall of the former Soviet Union, no new posts have been created in the Eastern European region. The old Moscow address remains. In one sense the region has moved on, while Australia has remained stagnant." Mr. Romaniw observed.

"We see great potential and benefits for Australian business through increased activity in Ukraine. This involves forming ongoing relations. These relationships can be formed only through a stronger presence in Ukraine," said the Ukrainian Australian community leader. "Doing business through the old address is not an appealing notion for businesspeople in Ukraine or those wanting to deal with Ukraine."

"Australia still has only an honorary consul in Ukraine, while Ukraine has in the 10-year period opened a Consulate General with a full staff. It has now taken the next natural progressive step and is opening an Embassy," Mr. Romaniw explained. Australian Ukrainians have established a Diplomatic Fund and many have contributed generously to assist Ukraine in establishing the Embassy.

AFUO representatives will meet with Mr. Mishchenko upon his arrival in Canberra and commence discussions on various issues related to the smooth establishment of the Embassy.

"The Ukrainian community in Australia offers Mr. Mischenko and his wife, Myroslava, a warm Australian welcome. It also wishes Mr. Mischenko every success in his endeavors," Mr. Romaniw said.

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