Azerbaijan revitalizes children’s library shelter in Kyiv with major renovation PHOTO

The shelter at the National Library of Ukraine for Children in Kyiv has been fully renovated with the support of the Azerbaijani government. 

The reopening ceremony was attended by officials from Ukraine's Ministry of Culture and Strategic Communications, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kyiv City Council, and Kyiv City Military Administration, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

Additionally, MPs from the Verkhovna Rada, over 20 ambassadors, accredited diplomats, cultural figures, and local media representatives were present.

Azerbaijan's Ambassador to Ukraine, Seymur Mardaliyev, emphasized that the renovation of the shelter was part of the humanitarian aid provided by the Azerbaijani government to Ukraine. "Today's event reflects Azerbaijan's ongoing support to Ukraine. Over the past three years, Azerbaijan's humanitarian aid to Ukraine has exceeded $40 million. During this time, more than 200 Ukrainian children deprived of parental care have received full medical and psychological rehabilitation in Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan is committed to continuing its humanitarian efforts to support Ukraine," Mardaliyev said.

He highlighted that the renovated shelter is more than just a refurbished space with fresh paint, new flooring, and improved amenities. "This is a home where children will find safety, comfort, and care, which they truly deserve. This beautiful place also serves as a bridge between Azerbaijani and Ukrainian cultures," he added.

Ukrainian Deputy Minister of Culture and Strategic Communications, Anastasia Bondar, expressed gratitude to the Azerbaijani government for their support. "This space will become a symbol of the friendship between Azerbaijan and Ukraine, expand opportunities for cultural exchange, and foster solidarity, mutual understanding, and support between our peoples," Bondar remarked.

Alla Hordiienko, Director of the National Children's Library of Ukraine, noted that such initiatives contribute to the strengthening of cultural ties between Azerbaijan and Ukraine. The shelter’s walls are adorned with vibrant depictions of characters from Azerbaijani and Ukrainian folk tales, as well as national symbols, such as the pomegranate, which is a significant cultural emblem of Azerbaijan.

The event concluded with a cultural programme, further solidifying the shared cultural connection between the two nations.

By Aghakazim Guliyev