In an effort to rebuild areas severely damaged by Russia's military invasion, executives from Ukrainian local governments visited Onagawa Town, Miyagi Prefecture, and observed the town's efforts to rebuild from the Great East Japan Earthquake.
The visit was planned by JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) to share the experience of recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake, and 10 people participated from Ukraine, including executives from Kharkiv city in the east and Odesa city in the south.
First, a representative from Onagawa Town said that after suffering major damage from the earthquake and tsunami, with the aim of rebuilding the town to be more livable for residents and more attractive to tourists, the town is rebuilding its main streets, commercial facilities, government offices, hospitals, etc. I received an explanation that they have been working on building a town where they can gather.
The participants then walked through the streets and inspected the town, taking photos and videos, and touring commercial facilities.
Odesa Deputy Mayor Bugelman said, ``I'm impressed by the various efforts that have been made to help businesses restart after the earthquake.I want to incorporate them into Ukraine.''
In addition, Deputy Mayor Isaev of Kharkiv City said, ``I thought it was wonderful that everyone came together as one and the public and private sectors cooperated to advance the reconstruction.In Kharkiv, the situation was very difficult and the residents were feeling restless. But I also want to work hard with one heart."
Takahiro Aoyama, head of the Public-Private Partnership Office in the General Affairs Division of Onagawa Town, said, ``If our experience from the Great East Japan Earthquake can be of use to the people of Ukraine, we would like to cooperate in any way possible.''