Kyiv celebrates diversity with new National Holiday, commends Azerbaijani support Photo

On May 22, Ukraine marked its first National Day of Interethnic Harmony and Cultural Diversity, with First Deputy Speaker of Parliament Oleksandr Korniyenko thanking Azerbaijan for its support.

The event, titled “Everyone Has a Voice, and We Share One Heart”, was held as part of the All-Ukrainian Forum of National Minorities and Indigenous Peoples, bringing together over 300 participants, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

Attendees included representatives of ethnic communities, diplomats, government officials, civil society members and international partners.

The landmark day was established by Presidential Decree on December 27, 2024 to acknowledge the unique contributions of Ukraine’s national minorities and indigenous peoples, and to enrich the broader Ukrainian cultural landscape.

In his address, Korniyenko highlighted the importance of recognising and preserving the customs and traditions of all ethnic groups that call Ukraine home. “By celebrating the Day of Interethnic Harmony and Cultural Diversity for the first time, we honour the unique contributions of every community to Ukraine’s cultural heritage,” he said.

“The strength of Ukraine lies in our unity — here, everyone has a voice, but we share one heart. This unity drives our European integration and collective success.”

Korniyenko also extended special thanks to the Azerbaijani state, its President, and diaspora organisations for their continued support.

The forum also featured symbolic tree-planting ceremonies involving representatives of various nationalities, including ethnic Azerbaijanis. Hayam Hagigatoglu, Chief of Staff of the United Congress of Azerbaijanis of Ukraine, presented Korniyenko with the Iron Fist award on behalf of the Azerbaijani community, named after a symbol of the Second Karabakh War.

By Aghakazim Guliyev