On May 23d, the solemn ceremony on the occasion of awarding the title of Doctor Honoris Causa to Rector of Mariupol State University, Corresponding Member of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Professor Kostyantyn Balabanov was held at Ioannina University.

The Academic Council of Ioannina University unanimously voted for this decision. Thus, the Greek colleagues noted the significant personal contribution of Konstyantyn Balabanov to the strengthening of friendship and cooperation between Greece and Ukraine, and successful activities aimed at popularizing Greek language, history and culture.

The ceremony was attended by members of the scientific and pedagogical team of the Ioannina University, headed by rector, professor Georgios Kapsalis, famous scholars, representatives of the Ukrainian diaspora.

Ioannina University is one of the best institutions of higher education in the Hellenic Republic. This is the first foreign partner of Mariupol State University after its establishment in 1991. It was Ioannina University that opened path to Greece and Europe for Mariupol State University.

Cooperation with Greek University is being developed with the assistance of the Embassy of Ukraine in the Hellenic Republic and the Embassy of the Hellenic Republic in Ukraine. A significant role in this process is played by Mariupol City Council, the Consulate General of Greece to Mariupol and the Federation of Greek Societies of Ukraine.

Over the years of fruitful cooperation, more than 250 teachers and students of Mariupol State University have taken part in scientific, educational and cultural programs at the premises of Ioannina University. The rector himself has repeatedly attended the Greek University, delivered lectures to students and faculty members.

Kostyantyn Balabanov is a well-known specialist in the field of international relations, author of more than 300 scientific works published in Ukraine, Australia, Greece, Italy, and Cyprus. According to the American magazine Time, in 1997, he became one of the 8 most distinguished Greeks abroad, and have gained world recognition thanks to his activities in the field of education, culture and economics.

The staff of the university sincerely congratulates Kostyantyn Vasilievich and wishes him further success in scientific, pedagogical and diplomatic activities!