On 27 July, Ambassador of Ukraine to the Republic of Estonia Volodymyr Boiechko paid a working visit to Rakvere, where he met with the Mayor of the city, Triin Varek.

During the meeting, Volodymyr Boiechko briefed the Mayor on the current security situation in Ukraine, including Russia's continued terrorist attacks against civilians and critical infrastructure.

In this context, and in view of Ukraine's preparations for the upcoming heating season, the Ambassador asked the Mayor of Rakvere to consider the possibility of providing additional energy assistance to Ukrainian communities to help ensure the uninterrupted operation of critical social infrastructure facilities.

The Ambassador also raised the issue of organising rehabilitation and recreational camps in Estonia for Ukrainian children affected by Russia's aggression.

The parties discussed continued support for Ukrainian citizens residing in Rakvere. The Ambassador expressed his sincere gratitude to the city authorities for their comprehensive assistance to Ukrainians, particularly for creating favourable conditions for their accommodation, education and integration into the local community.

Mayor Triin Varek briefed the Ambassador on the city's development priorities, the functioning of local government, and the implementation of social, cultural and infrastructure projects aimed at improving the quality of life for local residents.

Particular attention was devoted to digital solutions applied in the fields of education, municipal governance, social protection, sport and the provision of public services. The interlocutors noted that the introduction of modern digital services enhances the efficiency of local government, facilitates interaction between residents and municipal institutions, and improves the accessibility of public services.

The meeting also focused on expanding interregional cooperation between Ukraine and Estonia, including the development of partnerships between territorial communities, the implementation of joint cultural and humanitarian initiatives, and the exchange of best practices in local governance.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the interlocutors reaffirmed their mutual interest in further strengthening practical cooperation between Ukrainian and Estonian communities, enhancing bilateral partnership, and implementing new joint initiatives.