Ukraine is seeking support from UN Tourism for rebuilding its tourism infrastructure, improving visitor safety and attracting international investment amid Russia’s war, Ukrainian officials said after a meeting in Kyiv on Aug. 16. Ihor Zhovkva, deputy head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, met with Shaikha Nasser Al Nuwais, secretary-general of UN Tourism. The visit was described as the first by the organization’s secretary-general to Ukraine since 2016. Zhovkva thanked Al Nuwais for her visit and cited UN Tourism’s support for Ukraine, including the suspension of Russia’s membership in the organization’s General Assembly. The discussions focused on involving UN Tourism in Ukraine’s recovery and mobilizing international and donor assistance to restore tourism facilities damaged during the war. The officials also discussed educational cooperation, student exchanges and measures to protect tourists and maintain the sector’s resilience under wartime conditions. Zhovkva said tourism had contributed about 5% of Ukraine’s gross domestic product before Russia’s full-scale invasion, when roughly 30 million people visited the country. He said rebuilding the sector would support economic growth and regional development. During her visit, Al Nuwais also toured the St. Sophia of Kyiv National Conservation Area, a major Ukrainian cultural and historical landmark. Post navigation Boosting Traveler Protections