An interparliamentary group Ukraine-Sweden has worked two days in Kherson oblast. The Swedish Ambassador to Ukraine John-Christer Olander took pat in their activity. On January 16 people’s deputy Yuri Artemenko told about the purposes and tasks of the group at a press-club of a newspaper «Novyi den» («New day»).

»Kherson oblast has been chosen the first to be visited – Yuri Artemenko said. – The most successful joint Ukrainian-Swedish venture «Chumak» works in Kakhivka. A unique village Zmiyivka is situated on the other riverbank. Ethnic Swedish have been living there since XVIII century, they managed to preserve their individuality, language and culture».

»There are three problems in Zmiyivka, roads, water and gas supply, or their absence – Mr. John-Christer Olander has shared his impressions. – It seems to me, we can unite our efforts and favor this village’s development. Taking into account the experience of «Chumak» company, many entrepreneurs are ready to invest money into production in Ukraine, trade, create new job places».

Journalists actively asked about the 300th anniversary of the Battle under Poltava. The interparliamentary group and the Swedish Embassy plan to celebrate this date in summer 2009.

»It is our common history and we shouldn’t forget it – Mr. Ambassador has emphasized. – Many rarities from that time are being kept in Swedish museums. Common exhibitions, ethnographic surveys, folklore festivals show a great direction of co-operation in cultural sphere».