Category: News

Statement from Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce on Recent Comments by U.S. President Donald Trump Regarding Ukraine

February 20, 2025

Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce (CUCC) is deeply troubled by the recent comments from the U.S. President Donald Trump, which falsely blame Ukraine for Russia’s genocidal war of aggression. These statements contradict the undeniable reality that Ukraine has been the victim of an unprovoked Russian invasion—first in 2014 and then with the full-scale war in 2022.

It is particularly disheartening to hear these remarks just months after the 3rd Annual Rebuild Ukraine Business Conference, which was built on a Canada-U.S.-Ukraine partnership for Ukraine’s recovery. The conference brought together key stakeholders from all three nations, reaffirming their shared commitment to rebuilding Ukraine. Canadian, American, and Ukrainian leaders, investors, and policymakers stood together in recognizing Ukraine’s resilience and the critical role North America plays in supporting its reconstruction.

To now hear the U.S. President shift blame onto Ukraine is not only deeply unfortunate—it undermines the very foundation of the international coalition that has been instrumental in helping Ukraine survive and rebuild. The United States has historically played a crucial role in supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty, providing military aid, humanitarian assistance, and economic investments. Such statements, coming from the highest office in the U.S., risk emboldening Russia, weakening global solidarity, and jeopardizing the immense progress made in mobilizing support for Ukraine’s future.

The truth remains unchanged: Ukraine did not start this war—Russia did. Ukraine has fought bravely for its survival, its democracy, and its right to exist as a free and independent nation. Canada, alongside its allies, has stood firmly in support of Ukraine, ensuring that it has the resources and backing necessary to defend itself and rebuild.

CUCC remains committed to supporting Ukraine’s recovery, fostering economic collaboration, and strengthening the ties that connect Canada and Ukraine. We urge all allies of Ukraine to reject misinformation, stand by the truth, and reaffirm their commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and its future.

 

Zenon Potichny 

President, Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce

On February 13th, 2025 in Toronto, a crucial conversation about Ukraine’s future took place at The National Club, bringing together experts, policymakers, and business leaders. The “Ukraine, NATO: What’s Next” panel discussion addressed the current geopolitical landscape, Ukraine’s security needs, and the role of NATO in ensuring long-term stability.

Representing the Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce (CUCC), President Zenon Potichny, Director Lesia Babiak, and Executive Director Olha Mandyuk attended the event, reinforcing CUCC’s commitment to fostering strong economic and security partnerships between Canada, Ukraine, and NATO allies.

The distinguished panel featured two key voices in transatlantic security and diplomacy:

🔹 Kovaliv Yuliya, Ambassador of Ukraine to Canada
🔹 Robert Baines, President & CEO, NATO Association of Canada

Ukraine’s NATO Aspirations and the Reality of War

Against the backdrop of ongoing war, Ukraine’s NATO aspirations have never been more urgent. Ambassador Kovaliv provided a comprehensive overview of Ukraine’s position and the challenges the country faces in securing peace and stability. She highlighted three critical takeaways:

✅ A lasting and just peace is the only solution – Ukraine is not seeking a temporary ceasefire or another frozen conflict. History has shown that unresolved wars only resurface later, causing even greater destruction. A sustainable and just peace must be built on Ukraine’s full sovereignty and territorial integrity.

✅ Security guarantees are essential – Russia has repeatedly violated international agreements, demonstrating that diplomatic assurances alone are insufficient. For Ukraine, NATO membership or robust security commitments from allied nations are necessary to prevent future aggression.

✅ Urgent military assistance is needed – As Ukraine defends itself against ongoing Russian attacks, continued military aid from allies is not just helpful but vital. Delays or reductions in support could embolden aggressors and threaten the security of the broader Euro-Atlantic region.

The Role of NATO and Canada’s Commitment

Robert Baines, President & CEO of the NATO Association of Canada, reinforced NATO’s critical role in supporting Ukraine. He emphasized that Ukraine’s security is directly linked to European stability and, by extension, global security. The discussion also explored Canada’s contributions—both military and humanitarian—and the need for sustained, long-term support.

Canada has been a steadfast ally of Ukraine, providing military aid, financial assistance, and sanctions against Russian aggression. As discussions around NATO’s future role continue, Canadian businesses, policymakers, and defense experts must remain engaged in shaping the strategic path forward.

Why This Matters for the Business Community

For organizations like CUCC, supporting Ukraine extends beyond military aid—it’s about ensuring economic resilience, rebuilding industries, and fostering long-term trade relationships. Stability and security are fundamental to economic growth, and a strong Ukraine within the NATO framework would create new opportunities for investment, trade, and reconstruction efforts.

As CUCC continues to advocate for increased collaboration between Canadian and Ukrainian businesses, events like this panel discussion are instrumental in keeping the international community focused on the urgent and long-term needs of Ukraine.

Looking Ahead: The Path Forward for Ukraine and NATO

The panel concluded with a strong message: Ukraine’s security is not just Ukraine’s concern—it is a global issue. NATO’s continued engagement and support are critical not only for Ukraine but for the stability of Europe and beyond.

With Canada playing a pivotal role in diplomatic and economic support, CUCC remains committed to fostering dialogue, facilitating partnerships, and ensuring that Ukraine’s needs remain at the forefront of international discussions.

Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce (CUCC) is proud to celebrate the launch of a Ukrainian shelf at Loblaws The East Mall in Etobicoke, one of many Loblaws stores across Canada that will now feature high-quality Ukrainian products. This initiative marks a significant step in strengthening trade ties between Canada and Ukraine while bringing the best of Ukrainian flavors to Canadian consumers.

On January 28th, CUCC President Zenon Potichny and Executive Director Olha Mandyuk had the pleasure of attending the opening, joined by Ambassador of Ukraine to Canada Yuliia Kovaliv, Consul General of Ukraine in Toronto Oleh Nikolenko and Member of Parliament James Maloney. Their presence underscored the importance of this initiative in fostering economic collaboration and cultural exchange between our two nations.

The newly introduced Ukrainian shelf features a variety of well-known brands, including Veres, Nizhyn, Shoud’e, Наш Сік, Уogoda, and Київ хліб. These brands are renowned for their high quality, authentic taste, and deep-rooted traditions, offering Canadian shoppers a true taste of Ukraine.

This initiative would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of key partners, and we extend our sincere gratitude to the Embassy of Ukraine in Canada, Yuliya Ni, Loblaws, and Quality Natural Foods for their commitment to making this vision a reality. Their dedication to promoting Ukrainian businesses and products in Canada is truly commendable.

The presence of Ukrainian products in Loblaws is more than just a retail expansion; it is a testament to the resilience and innovation of Ukrainian businesses. As we continue to strengthen economic ties between Canada and Ukraine, CUCC remains committed to supporting initiatives that benefit both countries and their business communities.

We encourage everyone to visit their local Loblaws store, explore the Ukrainian shelf, and support these incredible products. This is just the beginning, and we look forward to seeing even more Ukrainian goods available to Canadian consumers in the near future.

 

The 3rd Annual Rebuild Ukraine Business Conference, hosted by the Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce on December 3, 2024, at Toronto’s Omni King Edward Hotel, was an impactful gathering that united global leaders, industry experts, and innovators to discuss and strategize Ukraine’s reconstruction and modernization. This year’s conference carried forward its mission of fostering international collaboration with a focus on building a resilient and prosperous Ukraine.

Distinguished Keynote Speakers

The event featured an exceptional lineup of keynote speakers:

• Ambassador Yulia Kovaliv emphasized the importance of international alliances in Ukraine’s recovery.
• David L. Cohen, the U.S. Ambassador to Canada, highlighted the role of cross-border cooperation.
• Lenna Koszarny, CEO of Horizon Capital, shared insights on investment opportunities and economic resilience.
• Richard Verma, Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources, discussed the global perspective on rebuilding efforts.
• General Roméo Dallaire, renowned for his humanitarian work, provided a moving address on leadership in crisis.

Panels That Shaped the Narrative

The conference hosted pivotal panel discussions, including:

• “Strength in Unity: Resilient Ukrainian Enterprises Driving Economic Stability”, which showcased the resilience of Ukrainian businesses.
• “Bridging Borders: U.S. and Canadian Businesses Shaping Ukraine’s Future”, which explored opportunities for North American enterprises in Ukraine.
• “Shared Visions: Charting Ukraine’s Recovery Path Together”, moderated by Natalie Jaresko, brought together government and corporate leaders to envision collaborative strategies.

Beyond Discussions

The event was a hub for networking, with opportunities designed to connect stakeholders from diverse sectors. Attendees engaged in dynamic exchanges during coffee breaks, a networking luncheon, and a closing reception. The conference also spotlighted sponsors such as Fairfax, Meest, and Horizon Capital, whose commitment underscores the potential for public-private collaboration.

A Vision for the Future

This year’s theme of resilience and innovation resonated throughout the event, reflecting the collective determination to rebuild Ukraine as a beacon of progress and stability. From technological advancements to sustainable development, the discussions offered a roadmap for addressing challenges and seizing opportunities in Ukraine’s reconstruction.

We would like to thank our incredible partners Business Council of Canada, Export Development Canada | Exportation et développement Canada, Embassy of Ukraine in Canada, Embassy of Canada to Ukraine | Ambassade du Canada en Ukraine, American Chamber of Commerce in Canada (AmCham Canada), Ministry of Economy of Ukraine and CEO Club Ukraine for their collaboration and leadership. Your partnership has been instrumental in creating a platform for impactful discussions and actionable outcomes.

We would also like to express our gratitute to our general sponsors Export Development Canada | Exportation et développement Canada, Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited, Horizon Capital, CIBC, BlackBerry, AV-CANADA, Meest Canada, General Dynamics Land Systems, Miratech, American Chamber of Commerce in Canada (AmCham Canada), Ukrainian World Congress – Свiтовий Конґрес Українців, Canada-Ukraine Foundation, ELEKS, BCU Financial Group, TIU Canada, TriggerTech, Ukrainian Credit Union Limited, EBS Global, Aecon Group Inc., Van Horne Construction Limited_CA
Without their support this event would not be possible.

For more information about the event and future initiatives, visit Rebuild Ukraine Business Conference Platform. 

   

Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce (CUCC), in collaboration with Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), Global Affairs Canada and Export Development Canada organized the highly successful Canada Pavilion at the 4th international Rebuild Ukraine Exhibition and Conference, held in Warsaw, Poland on November 13th and 14th, 2024. This major global event took place over two days and brought together leading stakeholders from across Ukraine, Europe, North America, and beyond to discuss, strategize, and forge partnerships to support Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction.

With leadership from President Zenon Potichny, Vice President Yuriy Kryvosheya, Vice President Markiyan Markevych, and Executive Director Olha Mandyuk, CUCC once again demonstrated its pivotal role in connecting Canadian businesses with the global community in Ukraine’s ongoing recovery efforts.

A Global Event of Significant Impact

The Rebuild Ukraine Conference hosted over 5,000 participants, representing governments, international organizations, financial institutions, non-profits, and private-sector companies. Delegates attended from countries across Europe, North America, and Asia, underscoring the international commitment to Ukraine’s reconstruction.

The conference featured 20 thematic panels and workshops that addressed critical areas such as:

• Infrastructure rebuilding
• Energy resilience and sustainability
• Digital transformation and innovation
• Education and workforce development
• Financing and investments in Ukraine

Speakers included global thought leaders, government officials, industry experts, and investors, who provided insight into the challenges and opportunities in rebuilding Ukraine.

The Canada Pavilion: A Hub of Collaboration

CUCC, in partnership with NRCan, Global Affairs Canada and Export Development Canada curated Canada Pavilion, a central feature of the conference. This vibrant space showcased the breadth of Canadian expertise and innovation in critical sectors such as infrastructure, clean energy, technology, education, and insurance. The Pavilion served as a hub for engagement, fostering direct connections between Canadian companies and potential partners from Ukraine, Europe, and the United States.

Over 60 B2B meetings were facilitated at the Pavilion, creating tangible opportunities for collaboration and paving the way for impactful partnerships.

Canadian Leadership and Expertise

The presence of Canadian leadership at the conference underscored the country’s commitment to Ukraine’s recovery. Ontario’s Minister of Energy, Stephen Lecce, participated as a distinguished speaker on the Energy Panel, where he discussed Canada’s advanced energy solutions, including innovations in renewable energy, grid modernization, and sustainable practices. His participation highlighted Canada’s leadership in driving energy resilience and security, a critical priority for Ukraine’s rebuilding efforts.

Showcasing Canadian Companies

The Canada Pavilion brought together a dynamic group of Candian organizations offering cutting-edge solutions tailored to the challenges of Ukraine’s recovery an

d reconstruction. Participating companies included:

• TIU Canada
• Consultec Ltd.
• Total Containment Inc.
• GeoMate
• Systèmes Polycrete
• Teknobuilt
• UNIVERSALNA Insurance Company
• TISEC Inc.
• FuelPositive
• Saskatchewan Polytechnic
• Victor Energy 
• Duraflex
• Varcon Inc.
• Northern Towers Industries Inc.
• CMSI
• Nucleom

These organizations represented the diversity and strength of Canadian expertise, demonstrating the country’s ability to contribute meaningfully to Ukraine’s recovery.

Building a Shared Future

The Rebuild Ukraine Conference and the Canada Pavilion highlighted the power of international cooperation in addressing global challenges. With CUCC’s leadership, Canadian businesses are not only contributing to Ukraine’s recovery but are also building enduring partnerships that benefit both nations. CUCC remains committed to fostering collaboration, innovation, and investment to ensure a resilient and prosperous future for Ukraine and Canada.

Together, we are building a stronger future for Ukraine and Canada.

On October 7, 2024, Kyiv hosted the International Hospitality Conference by Hoteliero, an event that brought together hotel owners, executives, and industry leaders to discuss emerging trends in the hospitality sector. This year’s conference placed a significant emphasis on inclusivity and innovation, exploring how the industry can evolve to meet the needs of a diverse clientele.

One of the key moments of the conference was a panel discussion on “Barrier-Free Hospitality,” featuring Yuriy Kryvosheya, Vice President of the Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine. In his remarks, Yuriy highlighted the importance of inclusivity, noting that it extends beyond just the development of accessible physical spaces. He urged attendees to adopt a broader understanding of inclusivity, one that embraces the social and economic reintegration of Ukraine’s military veterans and defenders.

“The matter & notion of inclusivity is extremely important,”Yuriy stated. “It continues to transform and evolve, covering much more than just suitable physical infrastructure, which, of course, should be developed according to the latest standards. Among the crucial aspects, we must consider the reintegration of veterans and defenders back into business activities, especially given the significant number of entrepreneurs currently on the front lines.”

Yuriy also emphasized the importance of starting this process now, without waiting for the end of the war. “We can and should be creative in finding ways to enhance synergies with our military and help our defenders. From our side, we have the honor of already being engaged with Soborna Ukraine and DoLadu Mental Health Lab, and we will continue to do more.”

The Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce remains committed to fostering connections between Ukraine and Canada, with a focus on building a more inclusive and supportive business environment. Yuriy’s participation in the panel underscored the Chamber’s dedication to promoting inclusivity in the hospitality sector and beyond.

The Chamber encourages all stakeholders to actively participate in initiatives that promote inclusivity and support Ukraine’s veterans, defenders, and broader community. Together, these efforts can make a significant difference in shaping a more equitable and resilient future for Ukraine.

Asters in partnership with the Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce (CUCC) and supported by N-iX, held an unforgettable evening celebrating the opening of the exhibition
“A SCREAM OF SILENCE” by renowned Ukrainian artist Vira Barynova-Kuleba. The event took place on September 25, 2024 in Kyiv, with the participation of the Artist, representatives
from the Embassy of Canada to Ukraine, CUCC members and friends.

Vira Barynova-Kuleba is one of the most expressive Ukrainian artists. She holds the titles of People’s Artist of Ukraine, Honoured Art Worker of Ukraine and an
acting Member of the National Academy of Arts of Ukraine. She is a Member of the National Union of Artists of Ukraine and a Professor at the National Academy of Fine Arts and Architecture. Vira is a Cavalier of the Order of Princess Olha, 3rd Degree. Her works have been exhibited in Ukraine, Switzerland, China, the United States, Hungary, Germany, Great Britain, and France. Many of her paintings are held in collections of Ukrainian and foreign museums, as well as by private collectors worldwide, and have been auctioned at Sotheby’s and Christie’s.

ArtAsters is Asters’ non-profit project aimed at the popularization of Ukrainian art. Launched in 2009, the project is designed to benefit Ukrainian artists and create additional opportunities to display their works in a gallery-like office space for Asters’ lawyers, clients, and guests to view.

We sincerely thank everyone who participated in this event and look forward to future
gatherings.

 

 

CUCC President Zenon Potichny Accompanies Minister Mary Ng on Business Mission to Ukraine

This week, CUCC President Zenon Potichny was honored to accompany Mary Ng, Canada’s Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade, and Economic Development, on a pivotal business mission to Ukraine. As the modernized Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA) prepares to take effect on July 1st, this visit lays the groundwork for mutual success and prosperity among Canadian and Ukrainian businesses, workers, and communities during Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts.

The delegation’s presence in Ukraine underscored the shared commitment to fostering trade, investment, and economic growth. The modernized CUFTA will enable businesses from both countries to capitalize on enhanced opportunities, stronger investor protections, and a more level playing field.

Minister Ng reaffirmed Canada’s economic support in countering Russia’s illegal aggression and emphasized the private sector’s pivotal role in Ukraine’s recovery efforts. Engaging with Ukrainian leaders, the delegation strengthened partnerships and reaffirmed Canada’s steadfast support—militarily, economically, and politically. 🇺🇦

Key Highlights:

1. Meeting with Yuliia Svyrydenko:
The business delegation met with Yuliia Svyrydenko, Ukraine’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy, celebrating the modernized CUFTA and exploring how Canadian firms can contribute to Ukraine’s reconstruction.

2. Business Roundtable:
They participated in a candid discussion with Ukrainian CEOs and executives, organized by CEO Club Ukraine in partnership with CUCC, addressing mutual challenges and opportunities.

3. Canada Day Celebration:
The delegation attended a special Canada Day event organized by the Embassy of Canada to Ukraine, hosted by Toronto-Kyiv in cooperation with CUCC. This event celebrated the deep cultural ties and shared values between our nations, featuring speeches and networking opportunities that strengthen our bonds of friendship and cooperation.

This mission has not only solidified existing ties but also opened new avenues for collaboration, ensuring that the relationship between Canada and Ukraine continues to thrive and support Ukraine’s journey towards recovery and growth.

 

On June 11th and 12th, CUCC President Zenon Potichny and Vice President Mark Vytvytskyy attended the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC2024). Held under the inspiring motto “United in defence. United in recovery. Stronger together,” the event was dedicated to discussing Ukraine’s rapid recovery and long-term reconstruction following Russia’s full-scale war of aggression.

A Historic Conference for Ukraine’s Future

As the first URC to be hosted in an EU member state, URC2024 marked a significant moment in Ukraine’s recovery journey. This conference came at a pivotal time, emphasizing the importance of unity and broad stakeholder engagement. The event upheld the Lugano principles, which are critical to Ukraine’s reform progress, economic resilience, and EU accession process. These principles outline the framework for international cooperation in Ukraine’s recovery and emphasize transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.

Key Outcomes and Objectives of URC2024

URC2024 focused on several crucial outcomes aimed at supporting Ukraine’s recovery and rebuilding efforts:

1. Mobilizing International Support: The conference brought together a diverse group of international stakeholders to rally support for Ukraine’s recovery, reconstruction, reform, and modernization. This collective effort underscores the global commitment to Ukraine’s future.

2. Providing Emergency Assistance: Immediate needs arising from the ongoing conflict were addressed through the provision of emergency assistance. This included essential humanitarian aid and support for displaced populations.

3. Implementing Rapid Recovery Projects: The conference emphasized the importance of initiating rapid recovery projects to restore critical infrastructure and services. These projects are designed to quickly stabilize affected regions and set the stage for longer-term development.

4. Creating Attractive Conditions for Business Investments: To encourage business investments in Ukraine, the conference highlighted the creation of favorable conditions for both domestic and international investors. This is crucial for stimulating economic growth and fostering innovation.

5. Engaging Civil Society: Recognizing the vital role of civil society in the reconstruction process, URC2024 promoted active engagement with local communities and organizations. This ensures that recovery efforts are inclusive and reflect the needs and aspirations of the Ukrainian people.

CUCC’s Commitment to Ukraine’s Reconstruction

The Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce (CUCC) is proud to play an active role in engaging Canadian businesses in Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts. By fostering strong bilateral relations and promoting investment opportunities, CUCC is supporting Ukraine’s journey towards a resilient and prosperous future.

President Zenon Potichny and Vice President Mark Vytvytskyy emphasized the importance of international collaboration in these challenging times. Their participation in URC2024 underscores CUCC’s dedication to contributing to Ukraine’s recovery and long-term development.

Looking Ahead…

As Ukraine continues to navigate the complexities of recovery and rebuilding, the outcomes of URC2024 provide a solid foundation for future efforts. The unity and resolve demonstrated at this conference are powerful reminders that, together, we can support Ukraine in building a brighter, more resilient future.

CUCC remains committed to its mission of enhancing economic ties between Canada and Ukraine, ensuring that both nations benefit from mutual growth and cooperation. Through continued engagement and support, CUCC aims to contribute to Ukraine’s emergence as a strong, thriving nation on the global stage.