Ukraine must work with Asean

For many years, Ukraine's foreign policy was focused mainly on Europe and North America. It was natural: Ukraine's path of European integration, security, and reforms demanded most of our capacity.

- Tamila Tasheva

Artists, curators and Ukrainian Embassy representatives are seen on June 21, 2022 at the 'Ukraine is the Cradle of Heroes' art exhibition, held at the BACC.

(VARUTH HIRUNYATHEB)

But now we must admit: there were many opportunities we missed in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, including the southeastern region of Asia. Sometimes this was due to limited resources, sometimes because of the legacy of Soviet foreign policy and Moscow's foreign influence.

One misconception we observe in many parts of the world, and in Asia, indeed, too, is that Russia has deep historical ties with the region. In reality, much of what is remembered as "Soviet heritage" and attributed mainly to Russia was no less, if not more, Ukraine's contribution. Ukrainian specialists helped build infrastructure in many countries abroad, including Malaysia and Indonesia, worked on major transport projects, and even took part in global efforts such as the construction of the Suez Canal and in the development of space technology. Thousands of doctors, engineers, and diplomats from Asean countries have studied in Ukrainian universities. Russia today tries to "occupy" this legacy, but the truth is that Ukraine has played a significant role.