Suffolk partners with Ukrainian region of Poltava

Suffolk County Council has signed a new partnership with the Poltava Regional Military Administration in Ukraine, rooted in friendship, shared values and a commitment to long-term cooperation.
Published: 15 Oct 2025

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed today (15 October 2025) at the XR Lab at West Suffolk College in Bury St Edmunds by Councillor Matthew Hicks, Leader of Suffolk County Council, and Volodymyr Kohut, Head of the Poltava Administration.

The agreement strengthens ties between the two regions and establishes a framework for meaningful collaboration across a wide range of sectors, including:

  • Economic development
  • Education, including partnerships with agricultural and nursing colleges
  • Science, technology, manufacturing and advanced engineering
  • Agriculture and food production
  • Arts and culture
  • Renewable energy and environmental sustainability
  • Healthcare
  • Tourism
  • Humanitarian assistance

The agreement encourages knowledge sharing, business and educational exchanges, and joint projects that foster innovation, resilience and sustainable growth. It also commits both regions to regular dialogue, visits and ongoing collaboration to ensure the partnership continues to evolve and respond to emerging needs.

Three people signing a Memorandum of Understanding: Mark Pendlington, Volodymyr Kohut, and Councillor Matthew Hicks
From left: Mark Pendlington, Chair of the Suffolk Business Board; Volodymyr Kohut, Temporary Acting Head of the Poltava Regional Military Administration; Cllr Matthew Hicks, Leader of Suffolk County Council

Cllr Matthew Hicks, Leader of Suffolk County Council, said:

“This Memorandum of Understanding marks a new chapter in the relationship between Suffolk and Poltava. It is a clear and heartfelt commitment to work together, to learn from one another, and to build a partnership that reflects our shared values and aspirations.

“This agreement contains practical steps that will help both our regions grow stronger. But it’s also about building connections between our communities, between our schools and colleges, between our businesses and institutions. It’s about creating opportunities for exchange, for learning and for mutual support.

“It provides a foundation on which we will build real, lasting connections, and we look forward to working closely with our Ukrainian friends in the months and years ahead.”

Volodymyr Kohut and Cllr Hicks shaking hands following the signing
Volodymyr Kohut and Cllr Hicks shaking hands following the signing

Volodymyr Kohut, Head of the Poltava Administration, said:

“The signing of this document is extremely important for us. Despite the challenges of war, we are looking into the future and, after the peace comes, we will have to rebuild our country.

“This will affect many areas – from agriculture to renewable energy. And your experience in their development is invaluable. Great Britain is our reliable partner. We are grateful to the UK Government and its citizens for their support and willingness to help both now and when the war is over.”

The MoU will remain in effect for five years, with both parties committed to reviewing progress and exploring new areas of cooperation as the relationship develops.

Several other local authorities have made or are making similar agreements with other regions of Ukraine.