On 22 June 2026, NAKO Executive Director Olena Tregub attended the reception marking Canada’s National Day, hosted by the Embassy of Canada to Ukraine. This year’s event was particularly significant as it was one of the final public engagements of Canada’s Ambassador to Ukraine, Natalka Cmoc, whose diplomatic mission in Ukraine is coming to an end.
In her remarks, Ambassador Cmoc spoke about the resilience of the Ukrainian people and their determination to live, work, and defend their country despite the full-scale war. According to Olena Tregub, it was not only the Ambassador’s words that stood out, but also the sincerity with which they were delivered.
“One of the facts mentioned during the event particularly resonated with me. Canada has stood with Ukraine since the restoration of our independence in 1991. To help establish Ukraine’s sovereign currency, the Canadian Bank Note Company printed the first 1.5 billion hryvnia banknotes. Canadian legal experts also worked alongside Ukrainian lawmakers in drafting Ukraine’s 1996 Constitution. It was a reminder that genuine partnerships are built over decades—not through high-profile statements or isolated decisions,” said Olena Tregub.
Today, Canada remains one of Ukraine’s closest partners, providing military, financial, and humanitarian assistance, training Ukrainian service members, and supporting the development of Ukraine’s defence industry.
“Thank you, Madam Ambassador, for your service to Ukraine. And thank you for becoming not only Canada’s representative, but also a true friend of our country throughout these years,” the NAKO Executive Director added.
The event also featured the presentation of the summer issue of Business Ukraine magazine, dedicated to Canada–Ukraine cooperation. The issue includes an article by Olena Tregub on Ukraine’s role as Europe’s shield and the importance of sustained support from international partners.
