On January 9, the Ambassador of Ukraine to the Republic of Estonia, Maksym Kononenko, undertook a regional visit to Rakvere to establish cooperation with the municipal authorities of the city and representatives of the business community in the Lääne-Virumaa region.
During the visit, the Ambassador of Ukraine to the Republic of Estonia, Maksym Kononenko, met with the Mayor of Rakvere, Ms. Triin Varek, and the Chairman of the City Council, Mr. Mihkel Juhkami.
On behalf of the Ukrainian community in Rakvere and on his own behalf, the Ambassador of Ukraine expressed profound gratitude to Ms. Triin Varek for her unwavering support and genuine kindness toward Ukrainian families who were forced to leave their homes due to the war.
Rakvere became the first city in Estonia to not only organize the reception of Ukrainians following the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 but also to provide them with dignified living conditions, access to education for children, opportunities to learn the Estonian language, and avenues for employment.
As a symbol of gratitude, Maksym Kononenko presented Ms. Triin Varek with a certificate of appreciation and the book "Ukraine and Ukrainians," which introduces the rich history, traditions, and art of Ukraine.
The Ambassador of Ukraine also raised the issue of potential cooperation between Rakvere and Ukrainian cities, particularly Sumy, Kropyvnytskyi, and Poltava. For Ukraine, exchanging experiences in urban development, the implementation of advanced technologies, and environmental initiatives is of utmost importance. Rakvere’s successful projects, such as the renovation of residential buildings, the use of environmentally friendly transport, water purification systems, and other innovative initiatives, serve as valuable examples for collaboration.
The Mayor of Rakvere, Ms. Triin Varek, and the Chairman of the City Council, Mr. Mihkel Juhkami, presented a comprehensive overview of Rakvere, highlighting its rapid development, safety, opportunities, child-friendly environment, energy efficiency, and modern infrastructure.
Particular attention is given to the renovation of city streets (Kastani Boulevard was updated in 2024, and Pikk Street underwent improvements between 2019 and 2021), the development of parks (Low Adventure Park opened in 2024, and Palermo Low Adventure Park in 2023), and the enhancement of sports infrastructure. In 2024, the Palermo Outdoor Gym was inaugurated, preparations for constructing a football hall began, and since 2022, a pump track and cycling paths have been in operation.
Additionally, a Health Centre was built in 2019, the Villamägi Open Air Centre in 2020, and a modern children’s playground in 2022. The reconstruction of street lighting was completed between 2021 and 2023. Currently, the construction of the new Ukuaru Music House, dedicated to the renowned Estonian composer Arvo Pärt, is underway, with completion expected in 2025. Moreover, the Work and Technology Center for Basic Schools was established in 2022.
Rakvere is also implementing a residential building renovation project aimed at transforming old "Khrushchyovkas" into modern energy-efficient buildings. This initiative enhances residents' comfort, reduces energy consumption, and contributes to the sustainable development of the city.
In January 2022, Rakvere took a significant step toward a sustainable future by introducing new compressed natural gas (CNG) buses on city routes, which are environmentally friendly and safe.
As part of the NOAH project, Rakvere implemented another environmental initiative: the construction of a smart water regulation gate to prevent flooding, as well as the installation of floating islands and woodchip filters for water purification.
These projects highlight the city’s active development and its focus on comfort, modernity, and innovation.
The Ambassador of Ukraine expressed readiness to enhance cooperation and implement joint projects that will open new opportunities for partnership.