Ukraine’s economy can reach level of Poland in 15 years - business ombudsman

He said this in an interview with RBC Ukraine news agency, when commenting on the World Bank report saying that if the growth rate of recent years continues, it will take Ukraine more than 50 years to reach the income levels of today’s Poland.

"I am surprised... I am convinced that Ukraine can reach the level of Poland faster. But courts’ independence should be achieved. It is important to fight corruption effectively. Also, all decisions of the Association Agreement with the European Union should be implemented," he said.

According to Święcicki, Ukraine should also attract foreign investors. "This was a very important moment in the development of Poland. The fact is that foreign investors brought new technologies into the country, new channels of cooperation with global business, new opportunities to enter international markets. And this promoted the progress," the business ombudsman said.

However, he emphasized that in order for investments to come to Ukraine, it is necessary to improve the image of the country. "Again, the conflict with Russia, as well as the high level of corruption, prevents this. Therefore, the current economic and legal problems should be solved. It is also important to think about geopolitical stabilization. Then the investments will be directed to the country," he added.

In addition, according to the business ombudsman, it is important to pay attention to Ukrainian business so that local entrepreneurs invest in their country as well.