Why Ukrinform's New Arabic-Language Platform Matters for Ukraine.

Roundtable Discussion: 'Ukraine and the Middle East – Forging a New Partnership Framework'

According to UATV: On June 4, a roundtable titled 'Ukraine and the Middle East – Forging a New Partnership Framework' took place in Kyiv. Participants focused on the launch of Ukrinform's Arabic-language website and the strategic importance of engaging with the Arab world. With an audience of over 400 million people, this initiative marks a significant step in strengthening ties between Ukraine and Arab nations.

The debut of Ukrinform's Arabic service represents a key milestone in building connections with Arab countries. Attendees of the roundtable included:

• Serhiy Cherevaty
• Oleh Nalyvaiko
• Oleksandr Mishchenko
• Vadym Lubchak
• Ihor Semyvolos
• Oleksandr Bohomolov
• Ihor Solovey
• Heorhiy Tykhy

They explored various aspects of communication with the Arab world. Vadym Lubchak noted:

'We engage this audience through our YouTube and Facebook channels.' — Vadym Lubchak

The UATV Arabic YouTube channel has recorded 45 million views, while its Facebook page has amassed over 300 million views since the start of the full-scale invasion.

Serhiy Cherevaty also remarked:

'We will do everything possible to dismantle these myths, including in the Arab world.' — Serhiy Cherevaty

This underscores a commitment to reshaping Ukraine's image in Arab countries. Heorhiy Tykhy emphasized that 'holding the status of a state or national agency for the Arab world is a major advantage—it brings greater trust and immense added value.' Ensuring credibility among Arab audiences is now a top priority.

Discussing strategies for influence, Ihor Semyvolos stated: 'In my view, this is real power, but asymmetry is a tactic for a smaller player that delivers a strong initial push—it cannot replace systematic effort.' This approach could serve as a foundation for advancing Ukrainian-Arab relations.

The roundtable also saw the participation of Ukrainian ambassadors to Arab countries, including:

• Oleksandr Balanutsa
• Anatoliy Petrenko
• Mykola Nahornyi

This highlights the importance of diplomatic efforts in strengthening ties with the Arab world. Overall, the 'Ukraine and the Middle East – Forging a New Partnership Framework' roundtable provided a platform for constructive dialogue on advancing bilateral relations under new circumstances.

The launch of Ukrinform's Arabic-language website and the intensification of communication with the Arab world open up fresh opportunities for Ukraine amid global shifts. Given the size and significance of Arab markets, Ukraine must focus on deepening partnerships through economic, cultural, and information initiatives. Successful implementation of these measures could substantially bolster Ukraine's standing on the international stage.