On 29 January 2026, Vadym Boychenko, Head of the Mariupol City Military Administration, paid an official visit to the CEI-Executive Secretariat, underscoring the Organisation’s long-standing commitment to Ukraine.
Particularly, in response to Russia’s full-scale aggression in 2022, Ukraine has received strengthened support both politically and through multilateral diplomacy, as well as through operational and project-related activities.
During the meeting, CEI Secretary General Franco Dal Mas reaffirmed the CEI steadfast commitment to Ukraine, stating: “Nearly four years have passed since a moment that marked a turning point for our region. On 24 February 2022, Russia’s full-scale military aggression against Ukraine was not just an attack on a single Member State - it was a challenge to the very principles of the CEI: peace, stability, and respect for sovereignty. Since then, the CEI has responded with unity, determination and, above all, solidarity. Today, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to Ukraine and, through it, to a secure, stable and prosperous region and a stronger Europe.”
Deputy Secretary General Yurii Mushka underlined how the CEI’s political commitment is put into action, emphasising the role of local and urban policies in boosting institutional and social resilience.
In his intervention, Vadym Boychenko focused on presenting a pilot project “My Home Ukraine” designed to provide a social and affordable housing model to support internally displaced persons through fair allocation, affordability, and scalable solutions, with an emphasis on enhancing social resilience. The objective aims to build around 5.000 houses, financed by the Ukrainian government and international partners.
The visit concluded with Vadym Boychenko signing the CEI Book of Honour, marking a symbolic moment of institutional dialogue and cooperation.
On 30 January, Vadym Boychenko and Franco Dal Mas visited the Municipality of Trieste where they met with Serena Tonel, Deputy Mayor of Trieste, and Sandra Savino, Undersecretary of the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance. The meeting provided an opportunity to further exchange views on the role of local authorities in supporting Ukraine.
For more info: arsova@cei.int
