In a significant effort to support Ukraine’s defense capabilities and reconstruction initiatives, the Arizona Defense and Industry Coalition (AZDIC) recently concluded its visit to the country.
Comprising representatives from various organizations, the delegation engaged in fruitful discussions on defense technologies, digital transformation, food security, educational opportunities, and research and development prospects.
AZDIC’s Mission: Supporting Ukraine’s Defense and Recovery
AZDIC, driven by its mission to bolster regional and national security, has been actively involved in assisting Ukraine.
The coalition aims to address immediate defense needs, contribute to long-term reconstruction efforts, and facilitate the development of a domestic defense industry in Ukraine.
Collaborative Diplomacy: Arizona Delegation Visits Ukraine
Led by AZDIC President Lynndy Smith, the delegation embarked on a week-long trip to Ukraine following an invitation extended to them by Parliament Member Dmytro Liubota.
Earlier this year, Liubota had visited Arizona to discuss pressing defense technology requirements. The visit to Ukraine marked a collaborative effort involving influential individuals from Arizona, including Tina Waddington, Austin Kennedy, Billy Kovacs, David Cook, Robert Medler, and Rick Stilgenbauer.
High-Level Meetings: Engaging with Ukrainian Officials
During their visit, the AZDIC delegation held crucial meetings with high-ranking Ukrainian officials.
The discussions involved Deputy Minister of Defense Volodymyr Gavrilov, Deputy Minister of Strategic Industries Sergio Blevins, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Android Melnyk, Deputy Minister for Digital Transformation Yegor Dubynskyi, and other prominent leaders.
The engagements focused on various aspects related to defense, reconstruction, and innovation.
Real Solutions for Ukraine: Arizona’s Commitment
Expressing solidarity, Arizona Senior Senator Kyrsten Sinema emphasized that Arizona and the United States continue to stand with Ukraine.
Sinema praised the Arizona Defense and Industry Coalition for its visit to Ukraine, underscoring the significance of supporting Ukraine against Russia’s illegal and unprovoked war.
The delegation’s commitment to finding practical solutions and creating productive outcomes for Ukraine during this crisis was acknowledged by Kharkiv Parliament Member Dmytro Liubota.
Governor Katie Hobbs highlighted the importance of addressing Ukraine’s diverse needs in areas such as industry, infrastructure, and defense.
She stressed the potential for collaboration between Arizona and Ukraine in efforts to defend and rebuild Ukraine, utilizing Arizona’s impressive innovations and research centers.
Addressing the Global Food Crisis: AZDIC’s Briefing in Rome
Prior to their visit to Ukraine, the AZDIC delegation attended a briefing in Rome conducted by Ambassador Cindy McCain, the Executive Director of the United Nations World Food Programme.
The session aimed to address the pressing global food crisis, which has been further exacerbated by the ongoing conflict.
Ukrainian farmers have faced challenges in exporting crucial wheat and grain supplies, severely impacting food security.
In conclusion
The Arizona Defense and Industry Coalition’s visit to Ukraine marked a significant step toward strengthening defense partnerships, facilitating reconstruction efforts, and addressing critical issues such as food security.
With a commitment to finding real solutions, the coalition aims to support Ukraine’s defense and recovery while fostering collaboration between Arizona and Ukraine’s defense communities.
Sources: THX News & Arizona Defense and Industry Coalition.
