“200th anniversary of the birth of Taras Shevchenko”

Ambassador Klymenko
Excellencies
Ladies and Gentlemen:

On behalf of the Acting Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva, Mr. Michael Møller, I would like to welcome you to the opening of this exhibition, which celebrates the 200th anniversary of the birth of Taras Shevchenko. Many thanks to Ambassador Klymenko and the Permanent Mission of Ukraine for showcasing a most important figure of Ukraine’s history.

A celebrated writer, poet and artist, Taras Shevchenko has left an indelible mark on Ukraine and continues to inspire many to this day. But his influence is not felt by Ukraine alone – his work is globally recognized and hailed as the foundation of modern Ukrainian literature and, to a large extent, the modern Ukrainian language.

As a hub of action on global issues, the United Nations Office at Geneva recognizes the need to promote dialogue and understanding between cultures, and appreciates the role of literature in advancing these efforts.

For two decades, our Cultural Activities Programme has been key in our activities to nurture this understanding and to promote public diplomacy. Its role in fostering intercultural dialogue has been widely appreciated by Member States, and we are pleased to continue this tradition today with the opening of this exhibition.

By celebrating the life and achievements of Taras Shevchenko at the Palais des Nations, we highlight our shared commitment to cultural diversity and multilingualism. We also promote the essential role of literature in education, dialogue, peace and understanding.

Thank you very much.