By Ben Garcia

KUWAIT: A six-day 'Ukraine Week' kicked off yesterday with a photo exhibit at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Stadium. Dr Oleksandr Balanutsa, Ukrainian Ambassador to Kuwait, graced the occasion along with an official from the Public Authority for Youth.

"I started my tenure in June 2019. I am here to showcase Ukraine so we can benefit from our strong relationship. We know we can offer more to Kuwait - likewise Kuwait to Ukraine - especially in sports. I am happy that the ban on Kuwait on participation in the Olympics was lifted. Now we are ready to help in anything.

Ukraine is a country full of talents. I have already received many requests for training in gymnastics, football and several other sporting activities. We want good cooperation and promote and share our experiences and the best from our side," Balanutsa said.

In a short video presentation, Ukraine was presented as a country full of positive people, described as artistic, fashionable, intelligent, progressive, creative, powerful and unique. Attendees at the press conference included a coach from Ukraine and two Kuwaiti citizens who had their own experiences of Ukraine's hospitality to share.

Events yesterday included fit ball, gym workout and a football match. Events today include a piano concert, photo exhibit and kids expo. Tomorrow, there is a 'Business Outreach Ukraine' event. Jan 21: Ukraine arts, fashion and music.

Jan 22: Discussion on medical and tourist potentials in Ukraine and Kiev classical orchestra concert. Jan 23: Tree planting, international students' conference, diplomatic receptions and Day of Unity of Ukraine. Coach Oleg Andricychuk was flown in from Qatar to join the Ukraine 'Week in Kuwait'.