The practice of municipal and regional partnerships is a part of Ukraine’s recovery that has proven itself. More than 1,600 such partnership agreements have already been concluded. This was stated by Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal during the Second International Summit of Cities and Regions. The event was held on 9 May with the participation of President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Ruslan Stefanchuk and President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola.

According to Denys Shmyhal, municipal and regional partnerships are already yielding a number of positive results right here and now.

“The first result is the comprehensive patronage of the reconstruction of entire communities and regions initiated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The patronage of Denmark over the Mykolaiv region, the French region of Île-de-France – over the communities of Kyiv and Chernihiv regions, Italy – over Odesa region, and many other examples are illustrative,” the Prime Minister said.

Another result, according to the Prime Minister, is concrete reconstruction projects. These are water systems, kindergartens, schools, hospitals – the infrastructure that is vital to every Ukrainian.

“The third result is the attraction of private investment. This is what will generate added value and new jobs. What will strengthen both the local and national economies. It will also strengthen business relations,” the Prime Minister said.

The next result that regional partnerships have already brought to Ukraine is the exchange of inter-municipal experience. It also includes a humanitarian component, support for Ukrainians who are in the most vulnerable position due to the full-scale war.

“Municipal and regional partnerships are another driver of our European integration. It is at the community level that strong and sustainable ties between people and institutions are formed. This is what will determine our European future,” said Denys Shmyhal.

The Prime Minister recalled a number of projects that communities could effectively implement with the support of partners. He also focused on energy issues.

“Over the past few months, russia has been intensively attacking our power plants, substations and other facilities. Restoration requires huge funds and enormous efforts,” the Head of Government noted.

According to the Prime Minister, the regions and communities of the partner countries are making their contribution. From the supply of generators to the implementation of long-term energy projects. In particular, he thanked Roberta Metsola for the Generators of Hope initiative.

“We will need a lot of decentralised energy equipment this year, from generators to gas turbines. The creation of a decentralised energy system will be vital for our communities and people,” said Denys Shmyhal.

According to the Prime Minister, Ukrainian communities should more actively find common ground with potential partners and agree on mutually beneficial cooperation.

Denys Shmyhal thanked international partners, representatives of European regions, cities, and regional associations for their continued support and solidarity.