Ukraine's peacekeepers, diplomats in Lebanon mark independence anniversary (09/24/00)

Ukraine's peacekeepers, diplomats in Lebanon mark independence anniversary

BEIRUT, Lebanon - A contingent of United Nations peacekeepers from Ukraine, dignitaries and guests celebrated the ninth anniversary of Ukraine's independence here at the Casino De Liban on Thursday, August 24.

As the Ukrainian and Lebanese flags flew in the backdrop, Chargé d'affaires of Ukraine to the Lebanese Republic Serhii Kamyshev presided over the celebration.

Mr. Kamyshev addressed the audience that included representatives for the Lebanese government, ambassadors and dignitaries from four continents, members of the Lebanese business community, Ukrainian residents and others.

Ambassador Kamyshev was especially praiseful of the 650 Ukrainian peacekeepers who are the major component of the mine sweeping operation at the Lebanese-Israeli border. He was sure to mention that the soldiers were risking their lives to make the area safer and save lives by removing the dangerous mines. The ambassador also complimented the Lebanese government and stressed cooperation and trade between the two nations.

Representatives from the Lebanese government present at the occasion included S. Hamdan, general secretary of foreign affairs; Mohsen Osiayet, general secretary of Parliament; and Fouad Own, representative of the prime minister. Embassy of Ukraine personnel who organized and greeted guests included Olexie Valovich, consul in charge of political and cultural affairs, Volodymyr Polomarchuk, first secretary and security officer, Roslan Nitchay and Volodymyr Khomanets, second secretary.

Several military officers, including Col. Oleg Havrenyuk, commander of operations, accompanied the Ukrainian U.N. peacekeepers present at the reception. The engineering battalion so far has cleared over 500 mines at military outposts left by the Israelis.

After the ambassador's speech, an anniversary cake and champagne were shared by all.

Guests from the United States included George and Fadia Peretsky. Mr. Peretsky has taken a hiatus from his position as a stockbroker and chief economic analyst for an investment and estate planning firm in La Jolla, Calif., and a venture capital firm in Lansing, Mich. Mrs. Peretsky has established a Ukrainian-Arabic translation service in conjunction with the American Lebanese Language Centers.

The night ended as it began in a jovial mood and with an optimistic outlook shared by all.

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