Vice Prime Minister of Ukraine Pavlo Rozenko together with President of the National Paralympic Committee of Ukraine/ Commissioner of the President of Ukraine for the Rights of the Disabled Valerii Sushkevych, Minister of Social Policy of Ukraine Andrii Reva and Chairman of Lviv regional state administration Oleh Syniutka solemnly opened the World Championship of the IPC Biathlon and Cross-Country Skiing in Yavoriv, Turkivsky area, Lviv region.

"It’s a pleasure that such a festive event is happening today in Ukraine! For the first time in history of the Paralympic and Olympic Games our country is hosting the World Championship of the International Paralympic Committee in Cross-Country Skiing and Biathlon. 19 countries take part in this event", said Pavlo Rozenko, speaking at the opening ceremony.

The Vice Prime Minister noted that the World Championship is one of the key events on the way of preparation of teams and the qualification of athletes for the Winter XII Paralympic Games of 2018 due to be held in Pyeongсhang, South Korea.

Pavlo Rozenko wished the participants success and good luck, judges – objectivity, coaches – restraint.

He assured that the Ukrainian Government will continue to take all necessary measures to support the development of the Paralympic movement in Ukraine.