International Black Sea Security Forum Kicks Off in Odesa
On May 30, the International Black Sea Security Forum commenced in Odesa, attracting over 500 participants from various countries. This is the largest geopolitical gathering in southern Ukraine since the outbreak of the full-scale invasion.
Over the next two days, Ukrainian lawmakers, diplomats, military officials, and international experts will discuss key issues regarding the security landscape of the Black Sea. The discussions will focus on strategies to counter Russian aggression, support for Ukraine, NATO's role, and the challenges faced by allies in the region. The forum was opened by Oleksiy Goncharenko, a member of the Ukrainian parliament.
The organizers envision the Black Sea Security Forum as an annual platform where leaders, experts, and strategists from around the globe can address critical security challenges facing the Black Sea region, a key area of global contention.
The main international partner and sponsor of the forum is British philanthropist Lord Michael Ashcroft. In his speech, he emphasized Odesa's global importance as a strategic point on the new security map. Lord Ashcroft noted that Odesa is currently on the frontline, serving as Ukraine's main maritime gateway, vital for the entire world, and that events here have global significance. He also highlighted that Ukraine is redefining the rules of naval warfare with remarkable innovation.
Participants were also welcomed by the President of PACE, Theodoros Rousopoulos, and Olympic medalist Elina Svitolina. Other key partners and sponsors of the event include the German political foundation Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung and the humanitarian organization Hepatica.
