Menarchik Reviews USAID Efforts in Crimea
From September 14-16, 2008, USAID Assistant Administrator for Europe and Eurasia Dr. Douglas Menarchik traveled to the cities of Simferopol and Sevastopol to observe USAID programming in Crimea. In Simferopol, Menarchik visited the Maternity Hospital #2, a Maternity and Infant Health Excellence Center created through USAID’s Maternal and Infant Health project, which implements evidence-based perinatal care in 18 of Ukraine’s regions. He also met with Simferopol-based media to learn about the current political and media situation in Crimea. During a working lunch with alumni of USAID’s Community Connections program, which provides training and internship opportunities for professionals in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, Menarchik addressed public health challenges, and outlined effective ways to fight HIV/AIDS stigma and discrimination in Crimea.
In Sevastopol, Menarchik met with city authorities, as well as representatives of the business community and city council, to discuss the city’s experience with technical assistance provided by USAID’s Local Economic Development project. Valeriy Saratov, Head of the Sevastopol City Council, expressed his gratitude for USAID’s support and satisfaction with the strategic planning process’s results. Menarchik and Saratov discussed additional technical assistance USAID may provide to the city. Saratov expressed interest in future collaboration on projects related to waste water treatment and fighting corruption. Menarchik reassured city officials and leaders of the United States’ commitment to the welfare, and economic stability and growth of Crimea.
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| Valeriy Saratov (right), Head of the Sevastopol City Council, presents Dr. Douglas Menarchik, USAID Assistant Administrator for Europe and Eurasia, with a plaque featuring images of local landmarks. |
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