Director of KKFF presented the Ark project at a major event in Rome

In the symbolic setting of a city regarded as the cradle of Western civilisation, he presented the Ark Initiative – a project dedicated to safeguarding Ukraine’s cultural heritage amid the ongoing war and destruction. 

In his remarks, Veselý emphasized that Ukrainian culture was undeniably part of our shared European heritage. "Without it, our identity is not complete," he stated, calling on international cultural institutions, governments, and civil society to unite in support of the initiative. He highlighted the need to build an international alliance of partners who could help protect, digitise, and preserve valuable artifacts and knowledge under threat. 

The Ark Initiative was met with strong interest by the audience of cultural leaders and professionals in Rome. The Foundation considered this a powerful starting point for building further momentum in Italy and beyond. "It is our hope that the issue of protecting cultural heritage will gain visibility at future international events," Veselý added. The Foundation expressed its openness to further collaboration and dialogue with Italian partners and institutions.