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The European Commission's Delegation
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Europe Day 2008

Europe Days 2008

Welcome to Europe Day!

Why do we celebrate Europe Day?

Europe Day- Schedule

European Village- Kyiv

European Village- Odesa

European Village- Donetsk

Language School- timetable

Public Discussion Tents

Partners and Sponsors

European Village- Kyiv

map

28 countries will be represented in the European Village in Kyiv this year: 24 EU members states, the candidate states Croatia, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, and Turkey and, last but not least, Ukraine. Each embassy will invite visitors to learn more about their country's geography, history, culture, music, people and cities, and to take part in games and quizzes. The Delegation of the European Commission to Ukraine, the European Youth Parliament and many other organisations will also be represented on Khreshchatyk.

Austria (Kyiv, Odesa)

We are glad to invite you to discover the old but at the same time vibrant heart of the European Continent. In the Austrian Pavilion you are invited to enjoy the traditional Viennese Café, while chamber music will bring a taste of Austria’s cultural traditions to your attention. Those who would like to learn before or after these delights are most welcome in the language tent. We cannot promise that you will join the long list of Austrian authors but you might learn some basic and useful sentences in German. Of course, representatives of our Embassy will take part in the public discussions. As one of the two host nations of the EURO 2008 championship we are also happy to welcome those interested in sports.

Belgium (Kyiv)

We would like to invite you all to the Belgian stand to learn more about the heart of Europe. Our small country has 3 official languages and a complex and rich history, as you will find out in the leaflets available at our stand. Home to many different cultures, our nation is known for its tolerance and quality of life. Together with our neighbors, we’ll give French or Dutch language lessons. Discover the Belgian way of life!

Bulgaria (Kyiv)

Welcome to Bulgaria, a beautiful country with ancient history, rich culture and a unique location on the crossroads of Asia, the Middle East and Europe, at the junction between North and South. The road to Bulgaria leads to new ideas, business partnerships, traditional hospitality and marvellous opportunities for tourism and relaxation!

Croatia (Kyiv)

Croatia- the land of a thousand islands. Dear friends, we are pleased to welcome you to the stand of the Republic of Croatia. You are invited to learn more about our country. Croatia comprises 1185 unique islands with endless breathtaking beaches, clear blue sea and miles of unspoiled Croatian coastline. It is a place of golden wheat fields, picturesque little villages and romantic castles. Croatia is rich in cultural and historical monuments. We also have eight national parks, making Croatia one of the most beautiful gardens of Europe. Our mountains inspire awe and excitement thanks to their wildness and diverse natural beauty.

Come and learn our language in the European Language School. We will give you some notion of Croatia's beauties. Welcome and enjoy!

Czech Republic (Kyiv, Donetsk)

Find out more about the Czech Republic - an advanced Central European country with an increasingly high standard of living, a rich history, spectacular architecture and beautiful cultural works. This is a country where everyone can enjoy a great holiday. Plenty of travel and tourism information materials will be available! We invite you to talk about our country and participate in our game “Draw the Czech Republic”. Dear friends, we are pleased to welcome you to the stand of the Czech Republic.

Denmark (Kyiv, Donetsk)

We would like to invite you to the Danish pavilion in the European Village. We will provide lots of information about Denmark, the Royal House and the educational system. Take part in Intercultural Dialogue. In Kyiv, don’t miss a great opportunity to see Danish national dance and listen to the folk songs. You will be entertained by the quiz Around Denmark and be able to win a good book, and you will definitely like our lottery. Try delicious Danish Bakery croissants at the European Food Corner.

You can also learn your first words or even phrases of the unique and interesting Danish language at the European Language School.

Come visit us and enjoy the day!

Estonia (Kyiv, Odesa)

Estonia is pleased to participate in Europe Day. We would like to present our small but strong country and we welcome everybody to our tent. Visitors will be given materials and brochures on Estonia. Our staff will be ready to tell stories and answer any question that may arise. Representatives of Estonian companies will join us this year. You can also find out about the shortest and quickest way to Estonia and taste some Estonian food. Everybody is welcome to learn a bit of our language, as our Estonian teachers will be waiting at the European language school.

France (Kyiv, Odesa, Donetsk)

Every year, the French Embassy and the French Institute in Ukraine participate in Europe Day. This year again, you will have the opportunity to get to know everything about France in the European village. Information about studying in France, learning the French language in Ukraine and cultural events organised by the French Institute in Kyiv and other cities will be available.

Germany (Kyiv, Odesa, Donetsk)

Germany - Land of Ideas!

Discover the whole variety of Germany and find out how much you already know about our country. Representatives of the German Embassy, the Goethe Institute and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) will answer all your questions and will provide you with information on different topics. You can also win interesting prizes in our quiz.

Visit our tent in the European Village!

Great Britain (Kyiv, Odesa, Donetsk)

Welcome to the British tent. Here you'll be able to find information on visiting, working and studying in the UK - as well as much more! With Britain being in the EU since 1973, we'll tell you what EU membership has brought us. We'll also tell you about Britain's top international priorities.

This year the British tent will be highlighting one priority in particular: the importance of tackling climate change and achieving climate security. Preventing climate change doesn't just involve action by governments - it involves us all. Come and find out how you can make a difference and win prizes in our topical quizzes.

Greece (Kyiv, Odesa, Donetsk)

Greece has taken part in the Europe Day celebrations in Kiev from the very beginning. Among other things, this year the Embassy of Greece will present a taste of the huge variety of Greek historical and cultural heritage, as well as the contemporary side of Greece. For the first time Greece is participating in the European Food Corner with the newly opened Greek Restaurant “ATHINA”. Take a break, have a snack with friends and enjoy the culinary delights of the famous Greek cuisine. Teachers and students of various Universities in Kiev will present traditional Greek dances as well as the Greek alphabet and teach some key words of this ancient language, which is still enriching the vocabularies of the scientific and intellectual worlds. Our traditions and world famous Greek hospitality; the fact that Greece is the favourite destination of millions of tourists, who visit not only the islands but also the mainland for their exceptional natural beauty; and Greece's stable economic and political situation, make visiting our stand worthwhile.

Come to our tent to explore your senses!

Hungary (Kyiv, Odesa, Donetsk)

Welcome to Hungary’s tent! Here you can find out about opportunities for co-operation between Hungary and Ukraine in many different spheres: economy, culture, education, science, tourism, etc. In the thousand years since the establishment of the Hungarian state, our predecessors produced outstanding achievements in many fields of science, culture and technology, contributing to both European and worldwide developments.

Did you know that one of the centres of the Renaissance in the 15th century was in Hungary? Did you know that this year we are celebrating the 550th anniversary of Matthias Corvinus, one of the most significant Hungarian kings, coming to the throne of Hungary? You might already know Ferenc Puskás, the world famous football player, as well as Ferenc Liszt, Zoltán Kodály, Imre Kálmán and other great Hungarian composers. If so, you are welcome at the Hungarian tent to play a quiz with us to find out “Who knows Hungary best?”

Ireland (Kyiv)

Dear friends!

Welcome to the Irish stand to discover the island of Ireland! Enjoy the Irish music while taking a glass of Irish beer! Don’t lose the chance to get some information booklets to know more about tourism and cultural events in Ireland.

And be sure, a sip of aromatic Irish coffee will make your visit to the Irish stand unforgettable!

Italy (Kyiv)

Come and visit our pavilion and learn more about Italy! Italian lessons will be provided for visitors, as well as brochures and materials about our beautiful landscapes, cities and historical and cultural traditions (including sports). A special food corner is envisaged. We will also provide you with the information on the exclusive events prepared by the Italian Cultural Institute. From April 7th to May 15th the exhibition “UNESCOITALIA – 41 Italian Sites of World Heritage in the Work of 14 Photographers” is to open at the National Conservation Area “St. Sophia of Kyiv”. A marionette show by the company “Arrivano dal Mare” is due to be held both in Kyiv (11th May) and in Kharkiv (15th May).

The Italian punk-rock band “Vanilla Sky” will be playing at the Europe Day evening concert.

Latvia (Kyiv, Odesa)

We warmly invite you to attend the Latvian stand to discover the heart of the Baltic states. Here you will get a broad overview of Latvia's history, tourism opportunities, economy, culture, art and people. Whether strolling around the Old Town of Riga, visiting castles, relaxing in Jurmala spa centres, hiking through forests, listening to organ concerts, or even driving through en route to Finland, you will see that Latvia has more beauty and fun than you knew! No wonder that one of the most extraordinary men of literature, Baron von Munchausen, found inspiration in Latvia, a country that brings dreams to life.

Lithuania (Kyiv, Odesa, Donetsk)

Don't miss this opportunity to rediscover Lithuania – the land of basketball and many other beautiful things. Visit the Lithuanian tent to watch or participate in a friendly street basketball match!

We will also be happy to provide you with materials about our country. With all this new-found information, test your knowledge about Lithuania – take part in a mini-quiz to win a souvenir.

Let your children join in our painting competition and we won't let them go without a prize! Those who would like to learn some words and sentences in Lithuanian – an old and unique language – are most welcome in the language-school tent.

This year we are also proud to present our band – InCulto – on stage in a Europe Day concert.

Let's enjoy Europe Days together!

Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (Kyiv)

The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia is a small country situated in the southern part of the Balkan Peninsula. It is rich in natural beauties and rarities. Many have named it “The Pearl of the Balkans”. Attractive lakes, mountains and spas are the distinctive features of the country. The main tourist resorts are located around the three lakes of Ohrid, Prespa and Dojran, which are popular tourist attractions. Popova Sapka, Mavrovo, Krusevo and Pelister are attractive winter sports and recreation centres. The spas Katlanovska, Negorska, Debarska and Bansko are well known for their medicinal and recreational qualities. The cultural map is exceptionally rich and varied. Our cultural heritage is shown in our valuable archaeological sites, large numbers of churches and monasteries with their icons, frescoes and woodcarvings, as well as our mosques, baths, caravansarais and other examples of Islamic buildings. National folklore and traditional arts and crafts are still cherished (Galicnik Wedding). Our old urban and rural architecture is attractive for tourists. Our cuisine abounds in well-known national and regional specialities, as well as good wines.

The Netherlands (Kyiv, Odesa, Donetsk)

We are pleased to welcome you to the stand of the Netherlands on Europe Day 2008! During this day you can become more familiar with the Kingdom of The Netherlands, a country that lies mainly below sea level and is well-known for its windmills, cheese and tulips. You are invited to learn more about Dutch history and to get acquainted with Vincent van Gogh, the famous 19th century painter, whose 155th anniversary is marked this year! And of course we will give you an opportunity to learn your first few words in Dutch at the European Language School.

Poland (Kyiv, Odesa, Donetsk)

Find out more about Poland, its development, economy, tourism, historical sights and culture. We invite all guests to talk about Poland and participate in our games and quizzes. Winners will receive souvenirs to remember our country. Two Polish teachers at the European Language School will introduce you to grammatical ‘tricks’ of the Polish language.

You will also have the opportunity to meet with Polish business representatives, listen to Polish music, sing songs together with us and simply have a lot of fun. At the European Village, Polish folklore ensemble Jaskulky-Lastivky will demonstrate Polish national costumes while singing Polish and Ukrainian folk songs. You will also have a chance to see the ancient attire of the Polish gentry. Polish Ambassador to Ukraine Jacek Kluczkowski will participate in the public debates and the official welcoming ceremony of Europe Day in Kyiv.

Portugal (Kyiv)

In our tent you can find translucent Atlantic waters, sunny beaches, historical monuments, wonderful villages and marvellous churches. Well known for our warm hospitality, friendly faces will be awaiting you. We invite you to discover Portugal on the Western coast of Europe and listen to our typical and unique Fado music.

Romania (Kyiv, Odesa)

Romania is the South-Western neighbour of Ukraine and shares with it the Carpathian Mountains, Danube and Black Sea, religion, some cultural elements and historical events. Come to Romania to visit special tourist and cultural destinations: monasteries and churches; World UNESCO Heritage; Dacian and medieval fortresses; balneoclimateric spas and mountain resorts. You will meet hospitable and open people and you will have the chance to discover what the European Union is through one of its newest members.

Slovakia (Kyiv, Odesa, Donetsk)

If you visit the tent of the Slovak Republic you can learn more about Ukraine's closest Western neighbour. Slovakia is a picturesque country situated in the heart of Europe. For centuries it has been at the historical crossroads of Central Europe. Slovakia is a country with a rich history, beautiful landscape and hospitable people.

Slovenia (Kyiv, Odesa, Donetsk)

Welcome to Slovenia, the country where you can have the unusual experience of seeing the Sunny Alps, the green Mediterranean, and the unique echoes of the Pannonian Plain in just one day! At the meeting point of three European geographical regions, time changes. Every day, you can enjoy a diversity of experiences that elsewhere would take more energy, more time, more kilometers. Because Slovenia is so diverse, it will enrich your every moment. Because everything is close by in such an easily accessible and safe country, it surprises.
Because Slovenia quickly enraptures all the senses, thoughts and passions with its diversity, it invigorates you immediately. Please, do come to our tent and see it for yourself.

Spain (Kyiv)

Seize this opportunity to know more about Spain! Learn some words and useful phrases of the language of Cervantes. Drink sangria, taste paella and Spanish omelette while listening to the magic sound of the Spanish guitar. Feel free to ask whatever you want to know about our rich, varied and ancient culture and get information about the favourite country of millions of tourists worldwide. Enjoy your time: dance Flamenco, smile and talk to us…you will find out that it is worth visiting our tent and our country!

Sweden & Finland (Kyiv, Odesa, Donetsk)

This year we are sharing our tent again! You are welcome to find out more about our countries, about our unity in diversity through history and modern life. In our tent you can win a poster or a good book in the quizzes. You can also buy books by Swedish and Finnish authors published in Ukraine. Come and listen to Finnish and Swedish music and sing Finnish and Swedish folk songs right next to our tent! Start learning our languages in the European Language School and enjoy this day with us!

Turkey (Kyiv, Odesa)

Europe’s expansion eastward has profound political significance. This process is reshaping the concept of Europe. Turkey is set to make a crucial contribution to the future of the continent with its dynamic population, flourishing economy and its position at the crossroads between east and west. An associate member of the EU since 1963, Turkey was recognized as a candidate state for EU membership at the 1999 Helsinki European Council. On 3 October 2005 accession negotiations were launched with Turkey. The Turkish pavilion on Khreshchatyk will feature a photo exhibition, brochures on Turkey-EU relations, with prizes and much more. The Gourmet Restaurant and Turkish Sweets Company will provide delicious “doner” and baklava at the food corner. We look forward to seeing you at our tent!

Delegation of the European Commission

At the stand of the Delegation visitors can find out more about the EU and collect lots of informational materials (brochures, booklets and posters) about the European Union, the Delegation of the European Commission to Ukraine and the present state and future prospects of EU-Ukraine relations. Those who want to test their knowledge are invited to take part in an EU-quiz. The winners will be rewarded with various prizes with the EU logo, and all other participants with many smaller souvenirs.

The Delegation's second tent will be devoted to EU Co-operation and its projects in Ukraine. Last year, the EU committed approximately 140m Euros to such projects in Ukraine alone. Those who ran and participated in these projects will present their results and achievements in the tent.

European Business Association (EBA)

The European Business Association (EBA) is the premier organization of international business in Ukraine, which consolidates over 760 international and domestic companies. Establishment of the EBA in 1999 was initiated by the EC. The EBA priorities are: reducing barriers to investment, supporting different instruments promoting economic integration with the EU and promoting the image of Ukraine as an investment destination and business partner. Detailed information is available on www.eba.com.ua. This year the EBA will organize Public Discussions within the framework of Europe Day (on 11 May, 2008 in Kyiv; on 17 May, 2008 in Donetsk). The main aim will be to demonstrate the advantages of EU-Ukraine economic cooperation and share European values with the public.

EU Border Assistance Mission to Moldova and Ukraine (EUBAM) in Odesa

The EU Border Assistance Mission to Moldova and Ukraine (EUBAM) came to the region in 2005 at the joint request of the Presidents of Moldova and Ukraine. EUBAM is funded by the European Union. It is an advisory body. It has no executive powers. The Mission is helping Moldova and Ukraine to enhance the professional capacities of their customs and border guard services, as well as their cooperation with each other and across the border. The Mission has its headquarters in Odesa, and six field offices. 119 experts from 22 EU Member States and 111 local staff work in the Mission. On Europe Day in Odesa EUBAM will have a table, display stands, and a Mission vehicle. Members of the Mission personnel will be at the stand to explain the Mission's work, hand out information leaflets, and ask visitors general knowledge questions about EUBAM and the EU. There will be prizes for correct answers.

European Youth Parliament (EYP)

The International Youth NGO ‘European Youth Parliament – Ukraine’ is one of 32 national committees of the European Youth Parliament. Since 2000, EYP-Ukraine has been successfully involving young Ukrainians in the activities of one of the largest European platforms for debate, intercultural encounters, educational work and exchange of ideas among young people in Europe. The European Youth Parliament spreads the ideas of European citizenship and a united Europe, and aims to provide young people with a unique learning experience. It operates under the patronage of Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Terry Davis, and President of the European Parliament, Hans-Gert Pöttering. The EYP conducts numerous international, regional and national sessions in European countries where the delegates work upon urgent political, social and cultural issues, and make friendships and international contacts. EYP-Ukraine has been assisting in Europe Day activities since 2003. At the EYP tent you will find information on our recent activities, upcoming international events, and the conditions and requirements for joining the EYP. EYP representatives will also be distributing information on the Regional EYP Session in Sumy (July 2008) and the National EYP Session in Kyiv (September 2008).

Diversity Initiative (Kyiv)

(contributors: IOM, UNHCR, EEDI, African Center)

In honour of the year of Intercultural Dialogue, we present the Diversity Initiative Booth. The Diversity Initiative is a network of over 30 institutions who are working to promote understanding between cultures and reduce racism. Today you will be presented with a cultural quiz for youth (with prizes) to see how much you know about the different cultures in Europe and Ukraine. You can also look through an assortment of informational materials on diversity including fliers promoting “Football against Racism”. Finally, you will get a chance to talk to people from different cultural backgrounds and learn more about their cultures and lifestyles.

Yalta European Strategy (YES)

The Yalta European Strategy (YES) is an international network whose mission is to promote a just, democratic and prosperous Ukraine, to help Ukraine’s transformation and to support its accession to the EU. YES brings together leaders of politics, business and society to debate and make recommendations for the future of Europe and Ukraine. A variety of YES projects work to accumulate knowledge, best practices, policy recommendations and opinions to produce breakthrough policy solutions and help Ukraine do its “homework”. The largest and most important international nongovernmental forum about Ukraine and the EU, Yalta Annual Meeting, brings together senior decision-makers for frank and professional exchanges of views on issues of politics, rule of law, energy, trade and investment. Other key YES projects include Agenda 2020, meetings with EU leaders, international conferences in Ukraine and the EU, debates on the FTA, European opinions surveys, and the Summer University for young European political and society leaders.

Euroclubs

Euroclubs in Ukraine were set up in 1995 and focus their activities on school children and youth. Their main goals are to inform young people about the EU and EU-Ukraine issues, assist in establishing good relations with European youth NGOs, and support Ukraine's aspirations for integration with the EU. Euroclubs have been long-terms partners of the Delegation in informing the public about various aspects of the EU-Ukraine relations and co-operation. This year's project implemented by the Nova Doba Association (www.novadoba.org.ua) which aims at strengthening the Ukrainian Euroclubs network by organising a series of training workshops for Euroclubs representatives, creating a database of Euroclubs in Ukraine, producing a publication about their activities, and raising visibility of Euroclubs in their communities. One of the “Nova Doba” activities in this project is “Ukraine invites”. The Action participants initiate social actions in their local communities in order to create a positive image of their community, region and country. The youth European clubs and Europe Days participants will present the results of their work on the Action “Ukraine invites”.


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