John Denton congratulated the UCCI team

My dear friends. 

A people who have suffered tremendously on account of the unjustified, illegal and inhumane war waged by the Russian Federation. 

But also to a people, who have endured and shown such strength, such extraordinary resilience, courage and faith and who have united showing the world that might doesn't make right, and that we must all stand up for the basic rule of law. 

And that the whole world is touched by regional conflict with global ramifications. 

The ICC, 

And the international business community we represent have stood by side by side with Ukraine since the outbreak of this war, we are doing and will continue to do all in our power to stop the war, provide immediate help to the people and businesses of Ukraine and work with you to rebuild your country after so much devastation. 

When I visited Kiev, Bucha and Borodianka in June this year, I saw in first hand the senseless destruction and human suffering wrought on your country and your people. 

I am proud that the ICC has been able to assist in some ways including by helping to create with the UN the Black Sea Agreement that allowed the resumption of agricultural trade out of the port of Odessa. 

By supporting the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce through twinning programs and extending their messages to our Global network. By creating a centre of entrepreneurship for Ukraine and working with Ukrainian authorities to drive investments from the global business community towards much needed infrastructure projects, we have much more to do. 

Friends, right now the future can look bleak, we have some understanding of the difficulties, of the lack of heat, the lack of water, the lack of work, families split apart and of course of the many people grieving the tragic loss of loved ones, but if Ukraine has taught us one thing this year it is the power of hope. 

I have no doubt 2023 will be a much better year for the people and businesses of Ukraine, by god you deserve it, we will continue to support you to the maximum of our abilities and we look forward to a bright and prosperous future once this illegal war comes to an end.