Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Dr. Oleksandr Balanutsa, Ambassador of Ukraine to the UAE, confirmed that relations between the two countries are witnessing rapid development and comprehensive growth in various political, economic, humanitarian and cultural fields.
He pointed out that it represents an inspiring model of partnership based on trust, shared vision and mutual respect between the leaderships of the two friendly countries.
He said in a press statement on the occasion of assuming his new position in Abu Dhabi: “Our two countries share a relationship based on the values of peace, cooperation and innovation, and we are keen to transform these values into tangible projects that serve humanity.”
A new phase of cooperation and partnership
Ambassador Balanutsa noted that President Volodymyr Zelensky’s official visit to the UAE in February 2025 marked a turning point in bilateral relations, during which the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) was signed, opening up broad prospects for investment, innovation, and trade between the two countries.
He added: “We seek to triple the volume of trade exchange in the coming years, taking advantage of the advantages offered by the agreement to enhance cooperation in the fields of agriculture, renewable energy, logistics services, and digital technologies”.
The Ambassador also praised the visit of Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Minister of State for International Cooperation, to Ukraine this October, which resulted in the signing of new agreements and initiatives, most notably the UAE’s support for the “Youth Space 12-21” initiative of the First Lady of Ukraine, which aims to enable young people to learn and create in modern environments.
He pointed out that President Zelensky awarded Her Excellency the Princess Olga Medal, First Class, in recognition of her role in supporting bilateral relations and her pioneering humanitarian initiatives.
The UAE is an effective humanitarian partner and supporter of the Ukrainian people
The ambassador appreciated the pioneering humanitarian role of the UAE.
He pointed out that since 2022, it has provided more than 600 tons of humanitarian aid, including ambulances, medical equipment, computers, food and clothing.
He said: “Emirati ambulances saved many lives, and their educational assistance contributed to enabling thousands of children to continue their studies despite the war conditions”.
He also praised the UAE’s mediation in prisoner exchanges and the return of Ukrainian civilians to their homes.
He considered it “an embodiment of the depth of Emirati humanitarian diplomacy, which gives hope in the darkest circumstances”. The ambassador also invited the UAE to participate in the Food Security Summit hosted by Ukraine next November as part of the “Food from Ukraine” initiative.
Which provides food aid to countries in need, including Lebanon, Gaza, Syria, Yemen and Sudan.
Cultural exchange and building humanitarian bridges
In a renewed cultural dimension, the new ambassador announced the organization of a major event entitled “Ukraine Month in the Emirates” during January – February 2026.
It includes economic forums, art and film exhibitions, and educational workshops, with the participation of the Ukrainian community in the Emirates.
This aims to promote cultural dialogue and highlight the bright face of Ukraine as a creative and open country.
He pointed to existing cultural initiatives that reflect the strength of relations, including the Ukrainian audio guide at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Ukrainian Books Corner in the National Archives and Library.
He stressed the embassy’s efforts to launch centers for teaching the Ukrainian language and culture in Emirati universities, in a way that enhances mutual understanding between the two peoples.
Towards a shared future of peace and innovation
The ambassador concluded his statement by saying: “We will continue to work hard to build bridges of friendship and understanding between our two countries, and transform them into effective partnerships that contribute to promoting development, stability and human prosperity around the world”.
