First Deputy Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Oleksandr Korniienko addressed the participants of the Congress of Indigenous Peoples of Ukraine with a welcoming speech.
The event, organised by the State Service of Ukraine for Ethnic Policy and Freedom of Conscience, was attended by members of parliament, representatives of the government, the Office of the President, ethnic policy bodies, diplomatic missions, international organisations and public associations, including indigenous peoples and national minorities of Ukraine.
The Congress focused on the rights and safety of indigenous peoples during the war, the role of Crimean Tatars, Karaites and Krymchaks in defending Ukraine, preserving their culture and gaining international recognition of their rights.
In his speech, Oleksandr Korniienko welcomed the participants of the Congress of Indigenous Peoples of Ukraine, in particular the leaders of the Crimean Tatar, Karaite and Krymchak peoples, and noted their important role in supporting and defending Ukraine. He stressed that the Verkhovna Rada will always be on the side of indigenous peoples, ready to provide resources and support for the implementation of state policy through legislation, interaction with communities and dialogue with the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar people.
«Unfortunately, the problems of the indigenous peoples of Ukraine did not begin four years ago, or even in 2014. We all remember russia's frenzied onslaught on Crimea and the events of the 1990s. No matter how much some people in the Kremlin or other russian offices might want it to be otherwise, the truth is that Crimea is Ukraine,» said the First Deputy Speaker, adding that the Crimean Tatars, Karaites and Krymchaks have always defended a pro-Ukrainian position and supported the territorial integrity of the country.
He emphasised the importance of international cooperation in protecting the rights of indigenous peoples and integrating their interests into European standards. The Council of Europe plays an important role in this process, and consultations will soon be held with it to determine the optimal model of life for indigenous peoples in Ukraine. In conclusion, the First Deputy Speaker stressed that the Crimean Tatar, Karaite and Krymchak peoples are worthy members of the Ukrainian family and called on everyone to work together for a common future.