On 12 of August, Ambassador Ole Egberg Mikkelsen addressed the Ukrainian Youth Forum in Kyiv on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Eight (NB8) — Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark as Denmark currently holds the NB8 chairmanship in Ukraine.
In his remarks, the Ambassador underlined the crucial role of youth as leaders of both today and tomorrow, stressing that young people are often the driving force in their own societies.
“We as the NB8 continue to be fully engaged in our support to Ukraine in its fight against Russia’s full-scale invasion. Ukraine’s fight for a just peace is a fight for peace for the whole of Europe, and we must work together to uphold European principles of sovereignty, democracy, and freedom,” he said.
The Ambassador noted that Ukrainian youth — an essential part of the country’s human capital — are vital for national resilience and post-war recovery. However, the war has affected young people profoundly, whether they are among the millions displaced or remain in their homes under difficult conditions.
The NB8 countries are among the top contributors to Ukraine’s military and civilian support efforts in GDP terms. As part of their commitment, the NB8 focus on:
Through close cooperation, the NB8 countries combine expertise and resources to empower Ukrainian youth, cultivate future leaders, and support Ukraine’s path towards EU integration.
The Ambassador concluded by expressing the NB8’s readiness to continue working with Ukrainian partners and stakeholders, extending best wishes for the Forum’s success.
Full speech here
