On May 26, 2017 the President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko together with Odessa city Head Gennadiy Trukhanov and the mayor of Istanbul, Kadir Topbaş has opened Istanbul Park and the restored Potemkin stairs.

 
"The friendly relations between Ukraine and Turkey are very important for us. Odessa and Istanbul are the two cities that are the gateway to the world for their countries. I am deeply convinced that an active business presence in Odessa and the opening of a direct ferry service between Istanbul and Odessa are very important. And the opening of Istanbul Park in Odessa is extremely important today.

It is just the beginning of deep interaction. I am also excited to see the rebirth of Odessa pearl - the famous Potemkin Stairs. It’s the landmark of Odessa, as well as the entire south of Ukraine. It is known throughout Europe and around the world" said Petro Poroshenko, referring to the citizens of Odessa.