Amidst the backdrop of the 61st Venice Biennale, Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Culture, Tetiana Berezhna, engaged in crucial discussions with the Dutch Royal couple, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima, along with Rianne Letschert, the Dutch Minister of Education, Culture, and Science. The talks, held during the unveiling of the Netherlands’ pavilion, underscored the importance of fortifying cultural ties and strategies to protect and preserve Ukraine’s cultural patrimony. Berezhna expressed deep gratitude towards the Netherlands for its unwavering support to Ukraine, encompassing diverse realms such as humanitarian aid, security assistance, and cultural collaboration.

Highlighting the Dutch participation in the Cultural Resilience Alliance, Berezhna noted their significant contribution of €1 million to the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Fund. This financial backing is perceived as pivotal in restoring cultural assets lost amidst ongoing conflicts, sustaining cultural institutions, and safeguarding the Ukrainian identity that is integral to the broader European cultural landscape. The Deputy Prime Minister reiterated the sentiment that each partner’s contribution not only aids in restoration but also fortifies the cultural legacy for future generations.

In sync with the global cultural showcase, Ukraine proudly presented Zhanna Kadyrova’s project “Security Guarantees,” and the sculpture “Deer” from Pokrovsk’s central park at the Venice Biennale. These representations embody the resilience and cultural spirit of Ukraine amid challenging times, occupying a significant place at the national pavilion’s opening on May 7. The event not only highlighted artistic expression but also echoed a resounding call for sustained collaborative efforts to protect and celebrate the cultural wealth of nations, emphasizing Ukraine’s invaluable contributions to the European cultural milieu and the global arena at large.

Quelle: Ukrinform