On April 9, First Deputy Minister of Culture and Strategic Communications of Ukraine, Galyna Grygorenko, held a meeting with a delegation from the Senedd of Wales (the Parliament of Wales).
The main goal of the visit was to give the Welsh political representatives a direct understanding of the situation in Ukraine, while also showing solidarity and gaining multi-party, regional support from the United Kingdom. The discussion focused on strengthening interregional cooperation, such as city twinning, building cultural connections, and preserving historical memory.
“In these difficult times, the support of our partners, especially at the regional level, is incredibly valuable. We greatly appreciate the solidarity of the Parliament of Wales and our shared efforts to protect historical truths, promote cultural exchange, and support democratic values”, said Galyna Grygorenko.
She expressed her gratitude for the consistent support Ukraine has received and emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting Ukrainian culture during the ongoing war. Ukraine’s First Deputy pointed out that the most effective collaborations are those that involve direct cooperation between institutions, communities, and thought leaders from both countries.
She also shared Ukraine’s efforts in introducing music quotas to support Ukrainian music, legally protecting the Ukrainian language, and promoting Ukrainian literature — all of which are crucial to the country’s national security.
Galyna Grygorenko emphasized the need to actively promote Ukrainian literature, highlighting the importance of book festivals, popularizing Ukrainian music, and forming partnerships between libraries. The discussion also focused on the vital role of arts and reading programs in schools, which are key in shaping young people’s identities.
Currently, around 8,000 Ukrainians live in Wales, nearly half of whom are children. The Ukrainian community is actively participating in regional public life, with creative groups, dance studios, and a Ukrainian cultural hub in Cardiff flourishing. The community is also deeply involved in volunteer efforts, including collecting humanitarian aid and supporting the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Ukrainian children are successfully attending local schools, learning English, and some are even picking up Welsh.
Mick Antoniw, head of the Senedd delegation, hoped that a national branch of the Union of Ukrainians in Great Britain would be established soon, strengthening the Ukrainian community’s role and improving intergovernmental relations.
