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President of the Swiss Parliament Maya Rhiniker visited Kharkiv

  • A group of individuals pose for a photo in a conference room. Behind them is a wall with colorful abstract shapes and a UNICEF logo, indicating an event organized or supported by UNICEF. The participants wear name tags, some dressed in white t-shirts with logos, while one individual is in a suit. The room features blue chairs and white tables, with items like notebooks and bags placed on the tables. The atmosphere suggests a formal gathering, training session, or collaborative meeting.
  • In a room with UNICEF branding, a person in a wheelchair wearing a light green outfit holds hands with another individual who leans forward, dressed in dark clothing with a shoulder bag. Other participants are seated and standing in the background, some wearing white shirts with lanyards. The room features tables, chairs, curtains, and a wall with colorful abstract graphics, indicating an organized meeting or interaction, possibly related to disability advocacy or support initiatives.
  • Six individuals stand in front of a backdrop that repeatedly displays the text "Kharkiv Regional Military Administration" in Ukrainian. The backdrop features the official emblem of the administration. The group includes men and women dressed in formal and semi-formal attire, suggesting participation in an official event, press conference, or meeting. The setting implies a professional occasion related to regional governance or coordination efforts.

08.07.2025

News

After official meetings in Kyiv, President of the National Council of the Swiss Federal Assembly Maya Riniquer visited Kharkiv, a city that remains at the epicentre of humanitarian challenges and military threats. Her visit was not only a demonstration of international support, but also an opportunity to hear first-hand from communities working on the front lines of change.

“Being here today is truly important for me. With this visit to Ukraine and to the frontline city of Kharkiv, we want to better understand the needs, listen to our Ukrainian partners and show them our solidarity. And also see the impact of our contributions and bring all these insights back home” said Ms Riniker.

In Kharkiv, she visited a number of humanitarian initiatives implemented with Swiss support, including a transit centre for IDPs, equipped underground auditoriums and vocational training projects. An important part of the programme was a meeting with the team of the Luhansk Association of Organisations of Persons with Disabilities, which was invited to present its own experience.

Together with partners with whom joint initiatives are being implemented with the support of Solidar Suisse, representatives of the LAGOI spoke about the concrete results of their work in frontline communities. In particular, they discussed improving living conditions for people with disabilities in their own homes — a solution that has not only practical but also deeply human significance.

‘This cooperation is more than just projects. It is about humanity, solidarity and shared responsibility,’ the LAOI said. They also thanked the people and the Swiss Embassy in Ukraine for their trust, support and attention to the real needs of people in high-risk areas.

During her visit, the President of Switzerland also discussed the region's current needs with the regional leadership — preparations for winter, humanitarian response and demining issues. Meetings with Kharkiv Governor Oleg Synyegubov and First Deputy Mayor Oleksandr Novak demonstrated a commitment to further cooperation.

The visit to Kharkiv demonstrated not only Switzerland's support, but also the strength of partnerships built on trust, mutual respect and a focus on people.

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