Representatives from the Kherson region in Ukraine have visited Lincolnshire and signed an agreement with councillors to work together to benefit both areas.
Oleksandr Prokudin, head of the Kherson regional military administration, joined Lincolnshire County Council’s Colin Davie, executive councillor for economy, in formalising an agreement between the two areas.
The Ukrainian Embassy has identified that Lincolnshire and the Kherson region have many similarities – both are largely rural regions with a strong farming and food production history, and a strong manufacturing base.
Coun Davie said: “The UK and Ukraine have developed a positive relationship through the Homes For Ukraine programme and I am very proud that we have more than 1,000 people here in Lincolnshire under this scheme.
“This marks the start of a journey to develop a strong partnership with the Kherson region that will see us learn from each other, build networks over time between businesses, connect research organisations, and support growth in both areas.”
Part of Kherson Oblast remains under Russian control after that country invaded Ukraine in 2021.
It’s largest city, Kherson was taken by Russia but then won back by Ukrainian forces in 2022.
Thousands of refugees fleeing Russia’s invasion have been or remain in Lincolnshire.