The Australia–Ukraine Chamber of Commerce (AUCC) was proud to participate in the Australia–New Zealand–Ukraine Cooperation Forum, held in Warsaw, Poland from 27–28 February 2026 and continuing in Lviv, Ukraine from 1–3 March 2026. The Forum advanced practical pathways for collaboration between Australia, New Zealand and Ukraine across business, innovation, recovery, humanitarian support and long-term partnership.

The Warsaw component of the Forum provided an important platform for Australian, New Zealand and Ukrainian representatives to engage with diplomatic, business and community stakeholders, setting the foundation for deeper regional cooperation in support of Ukraine. Discussions focused on strengthening economic ties, identifying practical areas for collaboration, and connecting Australia and New Zealand’s capabilities with Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction priorities.

The program then continued in Lviv, where delegates were able to engage more directly with Ukraine-based partners, institutions and community representatives. This provided valuable insight into the realities of Ukraine’s resilience, recovery needs and opportunities for meaningful international cooperation.

AUCC was represented by Chrestyna Kmetj, Vice-President of AUCC and Representative in Australia of the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (UCCI), who joined Australian delegates and partners to strengthen connections that translate shared intent into action. The Forum provided an important opportunity to link Australian industry capability with Ukraine’s recovery priorities, while building practical channels for investment, trade and bilateral cooperation.

A particular strength of the Forum was the opportunity to work closely with our New Zealand neighbours, strengthening regional Australia–New Zealand connections in support of Ukraine. AUCC warmly acknowledges Mahi for Ukraine, led by Kate Turska, as organiser of the Forum and a key partner in building these regional pathways for cooperation.

AUCC extends its sincere thanks to His Excellency Ambassador Vasyl Myroshnychenko and the Embassy of Ukraine in Australia for their active involvement and support throughout the program.

It was also a privilege to work alongside Teresa Lachowicz, Humanitarian Aid Coordinator for the AFUO Ukraine Crisis Appeal, whose support for the Australian delegation reflected the important connection between economic partnership and real-world humanitarian impact.

The Forum was honoured by the presence of key New Zealand and Australian representatives, including New Zealand Ambassador Paul Ballantyne and Markiyan Wojewidka, Second Secretary Economic and Political, Australian Embassy to Poland, the Czech Republic and Lithuania, who joined delegates in Warsaw. In Lviv, delegates were joined by New Zealand Honorary Consul Mark Wright, reinforcing the depth of trilateral commitment to Ukraine’s recovery and future.

The Forum concluded with a strong show of community support, with Chrestyna Kmetj leading the fundraising auction at the closing event — a powerful reminder that this work spans diplomacy, business outcomes and tangible support for Ukraine.

AUCC looks forward to continuing to build on the outcomes of the Forum and strengthening the role of Australian business, diaspora leadership and international partnerships in supporting Ukraine’s recovery, resilience and long-term prosperity.