The City of Weyburn hosted a delegation from the Ukraine on January 24 as part of an initiative to benefit economic development practices in Ukrainian communities.
This visit was a follow-up to Mayor Debra Button's trip to the Ukraine in December, which launched a five-year information sharing mission initiated by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM).
The delegation of five included Alexander Kucherenko, program director for Ukraine Municipal Local Economic Development (MLED), Olga Mazurenko, Ukraine MLED communications specialist, Igor Leposhkin, Ukraine government specialist, Deputy Mayor of Dnepropetrovsk Sergiy Kvitka, and Nataliya Lazurenko, Association of Ukrainian Cities. The delegation travelled with a translator and two FCM members during their trip across western Canada.
Weyburn was the delegation's first stop on the tour and plans to travel to Moose Jaw, Regina, Saskatoon and Edmonton, Alberta during their two week stay in Canada.
"One of the reasons we were chosen was because we stood out amongst the 1,800 municipalities in FCM for our economic development practices," said Button "And I'm very proud of that."
During the delegation's stay in Weyburn they were treated to several information sessions and took part in some local recreation activities. Delegates were even able to meet some local residents during a meet-and-greet at City Hall.
Ukrainian project director Kucherenko said that they learned about Weyburn's economy and how the City attracts business and investments.
"What's most important is sharing these experiences back in the Ukraine," said Kucherenko. "We have 12 Ukrainian cities involved in this project."
He said that his favourite part of the trip was meeting the people of Weyburn and visiting the ice rinks.
"I'm amazed at the opportunity for development for children to be healthy and have fun. Weyburn has great facilities and looks wonderful. It is small but well-kept."
The delegation was excited to throw a few rocks at the Weyburn Curling Club and shoot some pucks at the hockey rink. One delegate even took the opportunity to ride the Zamboni machine.
The trip was capped off with a Canadian/Ukrainian supper made by The Family Place, which was shared amongst the delegates and City Council members.
