Denys Shmyhal and John Kerry discussed achieving climate neutrality

The Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal and the U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry discussed energy security, as well as cooperation in the field of renewable energy and the green transition.

The Head of Government noted the importance of strategic cooperation between Ukraine and the United States and expressed hope that it would also include cooperation in curbing climate change.

The PM stressed that Ukraine had set large-scale goals in the field of combating climate change.

"Ukraine treats with responsibility the declaring its climate goal. As part of the development of Ukraine’s Second Nationally Determined Contribution to the Paris Agreement, the active discussions ministries, business and the public engage in active discussions, as we are striving to make a commitment that is ambitious but realistic and achievable," the Prime Minister said.

According to the Prime Minister, achieving climate neutrality requires simultaneous projects in infrastructure, education, landscaping, waste management, etc. He added that Ukraine is ready to work with the United States on various projects related to climate change and the development of a green economy based on new technologies.

In addition, Denys Shmyhal and John Kerry raised issues of energy security. The Head of Government noted that dozens of coal mines had already been closed in the temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories avoiding environmental procedures, which threatens the security of the region.

The Prime Minister stressed that at some facilities there is a risk of radiation-contaminated water entering the drinking water horizons and through the river system into the Sea of Azov.

"IAEA experts need to be sent to inspect this area. The organization of such an observation mission is a contribution to the security of the region. After all, there were almost 1,200 sources of ionizing radiation in the temporarily occupied territories of Donetsk and Luhansk regions," said Denys Shmyhal.

At the same time, the Head of Government noted that there is space in the eastern territories of Ukraine to create a new economy based on climate neutrality.

"This area is rich in raw materials, there are qualified personnel there. A cluster of modern productions can be created there. The Government is already developing a strategy aimed at creating special incentives for investors," the Prime Minister stressed, adding that US participation in these projects could set an example for the world.