On March 30–31, Ambassador of Ukraine to Canada Yuliya Kovaliv paid her first visit to the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. This visit was not just a diplomatic mission but a heartfelt meeting with true friends of Ukraine — people who support our country in its fight for independence and help Ukrainians find a temporary safe haven in Canada.

The program was full and meaningful. The Ambassador met with Premier of the province Andrew Furey, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills Sarah Stoodley, Lieutenant Governor Joan Marie Aylward, Mayor of St. John’s Danny Breen, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology Andrew Parsons, and leadership from Kraken Robotics Inc. The main topics of discussion included support for Ukraine, assistance for Ukrainians in the province, and prospects for deepening partnerships.

Special thanks go to Premier Andrew Furey, who from the first days of Russia’s full-scale invasion became a steadfast friend of Ukraine. Thanks to his leadership, Newfoundland and Labrador has become home to more than 4,000 Ukrainians. Our citizens feel the genuine support of the province, its people, and its government — and that is invaluable. The Ambassador also discussed prospects for cooperation with a region in Ukraine, which could open new opportunities for bilateral partnership.

A particularly warm and touching meeting with Lieutenant Governor Joan Marie Aylward left a lasting impression and once again reaffirmed: Newfoundland and Labrador supports Ukraine not just in words, but with concrete actions. Every conversation was marked by true solidarity and a clear understanding of the importance of a just and comprehensive peace for our country.

An essential part of the visit was the mobile consular service provided to Ukrainians residing in the province. This allowed citizens of Ukraine to access key services, submit passport applications, and resolve other important matters without having to travel thousands of kilometers to Ottawa.

Sincere gratitude goes to the Ukrainian community of Newfoundland and Labrador, especially UNF Avalon. You are the heart and voice of Ukraine on Canada’s Atlantic coast. Thank you for your active support, your assistance to newcomers, your dedication to preserving Ukrainian culture, and your role in strengthening the friendship between Ukraine and Canada.