Prystaiko, UWC leadership discuss coordination of assistance to fight COVID-19

Vice Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine Vadym Prystaiko said this during a video conferencing meeting with the leadership of the Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) on April 22, according to the Government portal.

“The mechanism will improve interaction with all partners that support Ukraine. It is important that Ukraine also contributes to the fight against the pandemic by helping partners. Ukrainian aircraft continually deliver the necessary supplies around the world to fight the coronavirus, and Ukrainian distilleries are capable of producing record volumes of isopropyl alcohol for disinfectants. Coordination of these efforts, in particular through the world-wide Ukrainian communities, is critical to ensure the effectiveness of the measures taken and the timely response to the urgent needs,” he stressed.

Prystaiko informed UWC representatives that the Government was also working on additional mechanisms to support the economy, social and other sectors.

“The Government has been engaged in elaborating more strategic steps, including maintaining production of Ukrainian medical supplies and equipment, as well as support programs for micro and small businesses. The Government has recently approved a decision that will allow small businesses to receive loans at 0% interest. This would stimulate the production of medical and other necessary goods in Ukraine and allow preserving jobs,” Prystaiko emphasized.

He also thanked the leadership of the Ukrainian World Congress for their active participation and practical assistance to Ukraine and Ukrainians during the coronavirus pandemic.

“Ukrainians all over the world have supported each other in these difficult times. The pandemic has just proved that we are stronger when we act in synergy,” Prystaiko stressed.

On April 2, 2020, on the instruction of Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal, a single coordination mechanism was created to collect data and coordinate the provision of international humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine Vadym Prystaiko was authorized to ensure overall coordination of this work.

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