Valencia has officially welcomed its new Ukrainian Cultural Center, a milestone for the local Ukrainian community after more than two decades of collaboration with regional authorities. The announcement was made on Facebook by Mykhailo Petrunyak, head of the Federation of Ukrainian Associations in Spain and the Association of Ukrainians in the Valencian Autonomous Community, reports Ukrinform.
The center’s premises were secured last year, following over 20 years of work by the Association of Ukrainians “Ukraine” and the Federation in cooperation with local government. The opening ceremony was attended by local officials, diplomats, representatives of Ukrainian associations from across Valencia, clergy from the Ukrainian Greek Catholic and Orthodox churches, activists, Ukrainian business representatives in Spain, and volunteers.
Messages of congratulations were read from the Ukrainian Ambassador to Spain, Serhiy Pohoreltsiv, as well as from the presidents of the World and European Congresses of Ukrainians, Pavlo Grod and Bohdan Riabchynets, among others.
“We hope this Center will become a true space of unity, strength, and cooperation—a place where Ukrainians in Spain can nurture their identity, preserve their cultural heritage, build friendships with Spanish society, and contribute to promoting a positive image of Ukraine internationally and advancing its victory,” said Pavlo Grod.
The Ukrainian cultural ensembles “Dyvotsvit” and “Ukraine” welcomed around 100 guests with traditional songs. The center is set to host its first consular reception for Ukrainian citizens on October 3, with consuls from the General Consulate in Barcelona.
