+26 Kyiv
"We, representatives of the highest-mountain communities of Zakarpattia, are writing to you in connection with media reports about the recent visit of the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to Ukraine, Mr. Luc Jacobs, to the Svydovets ridge. These publications contain information about his concerns regarding potential development on the ridge. He allegedly raised doubts about the prospects for the development of this territory. Given the importance of such a statement, it is essential for us to clarify whether the expressed position reflects the official stance of the Kingdom of Belgium", – the appeal states.
The deputies noted that attempts to build the resort have faced opposition from foreign activists who, according to them, involve Ukrainian media and even official representatives of foreign states in efforts to discredit the project. They therefore asked the Belgian Foreign Ministry to clarify whether it has an official position on the construction of the resort in the Svydovets area.
"For many years, our communities have defended the right to development in the courts, while also combating illegal logging. Unfortunately, these efforts are often accompanied by discrediting campaigns and the spread of inaccurate information, which creates a distorted perception of the real intentions of local residents. We would appreciate an official clarification on whether the Kingdom of Belgium shares the position voiced by the Ambassador regarding the development of Ukrainian regions, in particular Zakarpattia. We remain open to constructive dialogue and sincerely invite representatives of the Kingdom of Belgium to visit our communities in order to become acquainted with the real situation and our initiatives", – the deputies emphasized in the letter.
