I hope that Chicago and other communities in Illinois will be willing to take patronage of Ukrainian cities
Ukraine expects that the private sector of Illinois will contribute actively to the restoration of our country. This was stated by Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal during a media briefing following a meeting with Illinois Governor Jay Pritzker and U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine's Economic Recovery Penny Pritzker.
"It is symbolic and important that the visit to the United States begins in Illinois, the state that has shown extraordinary support for Ukraine in our struggle for freedom. Ukraine will always remember the generosity of the people of Illinois. They were among the first to provide critical medical equipment and support the Ambulances for Ukraine initiative. Thanks to your volunteers, 75 ambulances were delivered to Ukraine, saving Ukrainian lives every day," the Head of the Ukrainian Government said.
According to Denys Shmyhal, it is not only states or international institutions that can take the initiative in rebuilding Ukraine, but also cities and communities.
"I hope that Chicago and other communities in Illinois will be willing to take on the patronage of Ukrainian cities affected by the war. This will be another important manifestation of solidarity that Ukraine needs so badly," the Head of Government of Ukraine stressed.
Denys Shmyhal emphasised that Ukraine would always appreciate the solidarity of the United States, which it had shown since the first hours of the full-scale invasion. In particular, he commended the principled decision of hundreds of American companies that had imposed their sanctions against russia and withdrawn from the russian market.
"We urge companies still doing business in russia and headquartered in Illinois to do the same. To join those ethical and socially responsible companies that do not help russia to earn money for the war with Ukraine," the Prime Minister said.
Denys Shmyhal thanked Jay Pritzker for supporting initiatives to help Ukraine and Penny Pritzker for her involvement in Ukrainian affairs.