Kyiv, November 17, 2022
200 top managers of US and multinational companies gathered in central Kyiv for the annual American Chamber of Commerce thanksgiving dinner just hours after Russia bombarded Ukraine with 100 missiles
US Ambassador Bridget Brink delivered a keynote speech at the event. Representatives of companies including Coca-Cola, Cisco, Abbot, Visa, Bunge, Citibank, PepsiCo, IBM, Cargill, Archer Daniels Midland, Oracle, Baker McKenzie, and many others attended the dinner in downtown Kyiv. All recommended safety precautions were adhered to at the event.
"This event sends a robust message – the business community in Ukraine is resilient, brave, and united. Ukraine is open for business, and the private sector is ready to lead its post-war reconstruction. I am grateful to all members for believing and investing in Ukraine and US Government, Ambassador Brink and her team in Kyiv for their continued support," commented Andy Hunder, President of the American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine.
In his remarks, Hunder quoted US President Joe Biden's letter to AmCham Ukraine: "The relationship between the United States and Ukraine is stronger than ever and is being tested more than ever. Our Nation and the world are truly inspired by the perseverance of your staff, your member companies, and your employees and their families. Thank you for all that you have done and for all that you will continue to do in the years ahead."
US Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink said: "This is the time to help Ukraine prevail in its existential fight for survival. This is not only a fight for the present but a fight for the future. I am proud to be with you all here today, and my whole team is proud to be here in Kyiv to stand with Ukraine and to stand with you in that fight."
"As one of the most well-respected business organizations in Ukraine and one of the most accomplished in all of Europe….we will succeed with your help and your continued engagement. Even as we confront ongoing, serious security challenges, we will do everything we can to enable US companies and business to resume and even increase their operations here. AmCham is an absolutely crucial component in Ukraine's future success," Ambassador Brink stated.
At the Thanksgiving dinner, special gratitude was delivered to all defenders of Ukraine. "We are eternally grateful to all lionhearted men and women, including the employees of AmCham and member companies serving on the front lines defending Ukraine, fighting for freedom and independence," said Andy Hunder.
About the American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine:
The American Chamber of Commerce is Ukraine's most powerful international business association that has been serving 600+ members in Ukraine since 1992, delivering the shared voice of US, international and Ukrainian companies, who invested over $50 billion in Ukraine and remain committed to the country till today, during the war.
Contact persons:
Andy Hunder, AmCham Ukraine President, president@chamber.ua
Yuliana Chyzhova, AmCham Ukraine Chief Communications Officer, ychyzhova@chamber.ua
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