Eu Day Light

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said he welcomed Switzerland’s decision to contribute approximately $730,000 to the preservation of Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Sybiha said Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra is one of Ukraine’s most important spiritual and cultural symbols, adding that Switzerland’s support carries particular significance under the current circumstances.

Sybiha said that just two months before the Lavra’s 975th anniversary, Russia deliberately struck centuries-old shelters at the historic site, drawing attention to the threat facing Ukraine’s cultural heritage because of the war.

Sybiha claimed that Russia is trying to destroy Ukraine’s cultural heritage and erase the country’s identity, while Ukraine’s international partners are providing support to protect that heritage.

Emphasizing that Switzerland’s financial support is a tangible sign of solidarity in protecting Ukraine’s cultural heritage, Sybiha thanked Switzerland.

The Ukrainian foreign minister also expressed gratitude to Jacques Gerber, the Swiss Government’s Delegate for Ukraine, for being in Kyiv alongside Ukraine on the occasion of the important anniversary.

Sybiha said in his statement, “Together, we are protecting Ukraine’s heritage and an invaluable part of the cultural heritage of Europe and the world.”