Reception dedicated to the 10th Anniversary of GUAM’s transformation into the Organization for Democracy and Economic Development – GUAM

9 November 2016, at the premises of the GUAM Secretariat in Kyiv, a reception was held dedicated to the 10th anniversary of the transformation of GUAM into the Organization for Democracy and Economic Development – GUAM.

The event was attended by heads of diplomatic missions, the international organizations accredited in Ukraine, entities representing the business community, representatives of scientific and academic circles, public and political figures, as well as representatives of non-governmental organizations. The event was also attended by the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Chief of Staff of the Ministry Mr. V. Prystaiko and Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports of Ukraine for European Integration Mr. M. Movchan.

During the event, the Secretary General of the Organization Mr. A. Efendiev addressed with a welcoming speech, informed about the evolution of the Organization and its development and formation, the challenges facing the Organization, international cooperation and priority areas for development, as well as about future plans, emphasizing the upcoming meeting of the Prime Ministers of the GUAM Member States as a symbol of a new round in the harmonious development of the Organization.

The Secretary General thanked the leadership of Ukraine for the comfortable conditions created for the functioning of the GUAM Secretariat and for its constant support. A. Efendiev also addressed words of gratitude to international representatives, noting the United States and Japan, as well as other partners, and called for expanding and deepening cooperation in various areas of activity.

In the context of dynamic changes in the GUAM region and around it, the implementation of major initiatives and projects, the Secretary General on behalf of the GUAM countries expressed an interest in developing cooperation with the countries of the Visegrad Group, the Baltic region and Central Asia in transport, energy, tourism, etc.

In conclusion, the Secretary General thanked the GUAM Member States for their cooperation and commitment to further close interaction in the interests of the stability, security and development of the GUAM region.

The leadership of the Ukrainian National Committee of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC Ukraine) expressed gratitude to the GUAM Secretariat and personally to the Secretary General for close interaction in the development of the business component of cooperation between the GUAM countries, presenting a memorable gift.