First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska met with Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo. This is the fourth visit to Kyiv by the head of the French capital since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion. The meeting was attended by Presidential Commissioner for a Barrier-Free Environment Tetiana Lomakina.
"In a few days, we will commemorate the second anniversary of the de-occupation of our northern regions – Kyiv, Chernihiv, and Sumy. These are extremely important and at the same time sensitive dates for every Ukrainian. It was two years ago that the whole world learned about the horrors of Bucha, Irpin, Borodyanka, the village of Yahidne. Thank you for being with us today, just like two years ago, for your solidarity and determination to support Ukraine," Olena Zelenska emphasized.
She thanked the Mayor's Office of Paris and the Town Hall of the Paris arrondissement for organizing a vacation for 300 Ukrainian children from the de-occupied cities of Ukraine in 2023, as well as for the assistance in opening the French branch of the Ukrainian Institute.
"I am grateful for the decision to support the idea of holding a concert by the Ukrainian Freedom Orchestra in Paris on the eve of the Olympic and Paralympic Games," the First Lady said.
The parties discussed preparations for the 2024 Olympic Games, which the city will host this summer.
"We appreciate your integrity and unwavering position on preventing Russian and Belarusian athletes from participating in the Olympic Games in Paris under a neutral flag. Your city is a symbol of freedom, the fight for democratic values and respect for human rights. It is unthinkable that Russian athletes, especially those who openly support the bloody war in Ukraine and are active military personnel, would use the Olympic Games to legitimize aggression," Olena Zelenska said.
The President's wife noted the unique achievements of Paris in creating an inclusive city and accessible space for all.
In particular, 17 enhanced accessibility districts (QAA) have been created in the French capital. This adapted space will allow people with various disabilities to get simplified access to all useful city services and opportunities: housing, transportation, shops, schools, public services, cultural and sports activities. In each district, commercial and municipal services will be mobilized to the maximum extent possible. The city authorities, together with associations, will support the owners of businesses (shops, services, entertainment venues, etc.) in this process.
Another priority is to provide people with disabilities with access to regular sports, which is a factor in health, well-being, self-confidence, and thus better integration and inclusion.
"This is an important experience for Ukraine, where we are implementing the National Strategy for a Barrier-Free Environment. Our people with disabilities, whether they got them due to war or other life circumstances, should have every opportunity to live a full life. Only then will the whole society have a full life," Olena Zelenska is convinced.