Agata Kornhauser-Duda and Olena Zelenska, the First Ladies of Poland and Ukraine, held discussions on the implementation of joint projects to benefit the people of Ukraine, humanitarian cooperation between Poland and Ukraine, and planned future initiatives in these areas.
A Shared Endeavor in Medicine
At the end of last year, these two First Ladies initiated an exchange program for Polish and Ukrainian medical professionals. So far, approximately 200 doctors and specialists from Ukraine have received training. This includes 39 Ukrainian medics who participated in burn medicine training in Łęczna and 50 rescuers who completed a course on aerial medical evacuation conducted by the Polish Medical Air Rescue. Furthermore, 47 rehabilitators, 42 psychologists, and 53 volunteer firefighters have also undergone specialized training.
Continuing Education and New Partnerships
The First Ladies discussed the continuation of training for these various groups, with additional training courses organized by the Association of Volunteer Fire Brigades in Poland. This not only enhances the skills of Ukrainian firefighters but also addresses the need to establish volunteer structures in Ukraine.
Mental Health and Foster Care
Olena Zelenska emphasized the specific need for psychiatric support, including increasing the competencies of Ukrainian psychiatrists and improving access to appropriate medications. The two First Ladies also explored new areas of collaboration, such as planned training for Ukrainian specialists in various forms of foster care.
Support for Ukraine
In the discussion, the First Ladies highlighted that these training courses not only enhance the skills of Ukrainian medical personnel but also provide participants with a much-needed respite in the context of daily work in a country affected by conflict. Olena Zelenska expressed her gratitude to Agata Kornhauser-Duda for her active involvement in the project.
Additionally, the First Lady of Ukraine presented the outcomes of recent debates accompanying the First Ladies and Gentlemen Summit’s third edition, which took place in Kyiv last month. Agata Kornhauser-Duda spoke about the impact of war on mental health during the event. According to a WHO report from June this year, over 90% of Ukrainians exhibit at least one symptom of anxiety disorders, and more than 50% are at risk of developing mental health problems.
Olena Zelenska mentioned plans for developing a platform for the exchange of opinions and experiences among the Presidents’ spouses.
Rescuing Abducted Children
A crucial topic during the discussion was the situation of children abducted into Russia and potential methods of rescue.
Agata Kornhauser-Duda concluded the conversation by assuring, “Please remember that we are with you, and we will continue to help as long as it is necessary.”
Previously, the First Ladies had a conversation in New York on the sidelines of the 78th UN General Assembly session, discussing actions to prevent and alleviate the suffering of Ukrainian children affected by Russia’s war.