SCRANTON, Pa. (WHTM) -- Governor Josh Shapiro welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the Commonwealth Sunday, where the two leaders signed a pact between state and the Ukrainian province of Zaporizhzhia.
Zelenskyy visited an ammunition plant in Scranton Sunday that builds howitzer rounds used by Ukraine in the war against Russia.
Residents react to President Zelenskyy’s Scranton visit
“Pennsylvania is the birthplace of American freedom – and our Commonwealth proudly stands with the people of Ukraine as they fight for their freedom against naked aggression,” Shapiro said in a media release. “I’m proud to welcome President Zelenskyy and his delegation to Scranton – to visit with the women and men who are fueling his country’s fight for freedom – and sign an agreement with Zaporizhzhia that will strengthen both states and foster collaboration for years to come. Pennsylvania looks forward to building a close relationship with Zaporizhzhia as we continue to stand on the side of freedom.”
The agreement "aims to leverage the strengths of both regions and support the region's efforts to rebuild after the war while providing Pennsylvania businesses an opportunity to participate in the reconstruction through the Department of Community and Economic Development," the state says.
Commonwealth Media Services - Governor Shapiro, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to visit Scranton Army Ammunition PlantCommonwealth Media Services - Governor Shapiro, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to visit Scranton Army Ammunition PlantCommonwealth Media Services - Governor Shapiro, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to visit Scranton Army Ammunition PlantCommonwealth Media Services - Governor Shapiro, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to visit Scranton Army Ammunition PlantCommonwealth Media Services - Governor Shapiro, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to visit Scranton Army Ammunition Plant
As part of the agreement, Pennsylvania will work with economic leaders in Zaporizhzhia to share best practices in critical industries.
“Today is an exciting day for Zaporizhzhia and Pennsylvania,” said DCED Secretary Rick Siger. “This agreement will help support the future economic revitalization of Ukraine, while boosting our economy and creating jobs for Pennsylvanians.
