n Odesa, we had the honor of welcoming a long-time friend and partner of Ukraine — Kurt Volker, American diplomat and former U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine Negotiations.
As part of the visit, we presented the concept of the National Project for Reviving the Ukrainian Danube Region, developed by the Association of Local Governments “EU Strategy for the Danube Region” in cooperation with the Alliance for Ukraine’s Renewal.
The document integrates economic, political, environmental, logistical, and cultural dimensions, outlining a vision of the Danube region as a powerful hub for Ukraine’s integration into the Danube, Black Sea, and wider European space.
“This concept is the result of months of in-depth analysis, expert consultations, and engagement with communities of the Danube region. It addresses not only economic and political issues but also the specifics of the Danube and Black Sea basins. We deeply value that Kurt Volker showed sincere interest, carefully studied the document, and shared valuable recommendations to strengthen our work,” — emphasized Yuriy Maslov, President of the Association.
The program also included a cultural dimension. Together we visited the Odesa Philharmonic, the Museum of Western and Eastern Art, and the Archaeological Museum, discussing heritage, modern challenges, and opportunities for the renewal of cultural institutions.
“A particularly symbolic parallel emerged: in the evening we discussed the prospects of development around Snake Island — energy, logistics, and security — and the very next morning we saw unique artifacts lifted from the waters near Snake Island in the Archaeological Museum. Millennia of history intersect with today’s geopolitical challenges,” — added Yuriy Maslov.
For our Association, this meeting reaffirmed: reviving the Danube region is not only a strategy for Ukraine but also an important element of the international agenda.
