Ukraine's PM, EBRD President discuss recovery and development projects

This is reported by the Government portal, according to Ukrinform.

"We highly appreciate the assistance provided by the EBRD for the needs of Ukraine in these extremely difficult times. I want to thank you for your unwavering and firm position on supporting Ukraine in countering the Russian military invasion and increasing the Bank's investment portfolio in Ukraine to support our real economy," Shmyhal said.

In particular, he noted the signing of an agreement between the EBRD and NPC Ukrenergo to provide EUR 300 million to rebuild the high-voltage infrastructure and ensure the company's financial stability. The projects to protect and restore the grid infrastructure have already been launched.

"Continuing reforms in the energy sector is crucial for the survival, reconstruction and European integration of our country," the Prime Minister emphasized.

The Prime Minister also thanked the EBRD for its assistance in financing Ukraine’s transport infrastructure. He expressed hope that the Bank would support the decision to provide additional funding for Ukrzaliznytsia and continue cooperation with Ukravtodor.

In addition, Shmyhal praised the EBRD's recent decision to provide EUR 25 million to Ukraine to support the agricultural business and welcomed the Bank's participation in the work of the multilateral Donor Coordination Platform for Ukraine.

"We look forward to the EBRD's active involvement in the implementation of the priority recovery within the framework of the EBRD's support portfolio of up to EUR 1.5 billion planned for 2023," Shmyhal said.

He emphasized that continuing the successful cooperation between Ukraine and the EBRD against the background of countering Russia's aggressive policy is of strategic importance for security, stability and prosperity in Europe.

In her turn, Odile Renaud-Basso said that the EBRD plans to focus this year on such areas of work in Ukraine as support for the public and private sectors (including support for small and medium-sized businesses), financing of road construction projects, cooperation with cities and communities, and support for the energy sector.

As Ukrinform reported, on April 17, Shmyhal discussed with Matteo Patrone, EBRD Director for Eastern Europe and the Caucasus, and Matti Maasikas, Head of the EU Delegation to Ukraine, cooperation in rebuilding Ukraine and implementing reforms.