The House Committee on Rules convened on May 5, 2025, to discuss the potential establishment of a sister state relationship between Oregon and the Cherkasy region of Ukraine. The meeting featured testimonies highlighting the benefits of such a partnership, focusing on economic, cultural, and humanitarian aspects.

The session began with a presentation from an English teacher who has been teaching Ukrainian students online. She emphasized the strong connections formed through education, noting that her students view Oregon positively and aspire to visit. She argued that fostering a relationship with Ukraine would provide Oregon access to a talented pool of multilingual individuals eager to contribute to the state. The teacher underscored the importance of "soft power," suggesting that building these connections could enhance Oregon's global standing and goodwill.

Following her testimony, Yulia Brochdorf, a dietitian and psychotherapist, spoke in support of Senate Concurrent Resolution 23 (SCR 23). She echoed the sentiments of over 80 Oregonians who submitted written testimony advocating for the sister state relationship. Brochdorf highlighted the agricultural and industrial strengths of Cherkasy, suggesting that collaboration could unlock new markets for Oregon products and promote innovation in renewable energy and sustainable agriculture. She framed the partnership as an opportunity for Oregon to lead in supporting democratic values while enhancing economic growth.

The committee's discussions reflected a growing interest in international partnerships that not only address moral imperatives but also offer tangible benefits to Oregonians. The meeting concluded with a call for further exploration of the proposed relationship, emphasizing the potential for economic collaboration and cultural exchange. The next steps will likely involve continued dialogue and outreach to stakeholders in both regions to assess the feasibility and impact of the proposed sister state relationship.