On Wednesday, October 23, the sixth Ministerial Roundtable Discussion for Support to Ukraine took place, co-chaired by the Government of Ukraine, the World Bank Group, and the IMF.
The event was opened by speeches from Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal (online), World Bank Group President Ajay Banga, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, and Ukraine’s Finance Minister Sergii Marchenko.
Participants discussed securing Ukraine’s State Budget needs for 2024 and 2025, as well as recovery efforts, particularly in preparation for winter energy needs.
Partners acknowledged the effectiveness of Ukraine’s financial policies, including maintaining financial stability and implementing fiscal reforms.
In the speech, Sergii Marchenko thanked his colleagues for the support of Ukraine, including the significant financial aid totaling USD 99.4 billion since February 2022.
At the same time, the Finance Minister added that the challenges caused by the full-scale aggression persist, and continued budgetary support from partners remains critically important.
Sergii Marchenko called the decision to allocate USD 50 billion to Ukraine from the profits of russian assets a historic step towards justice: "russia must be held accountable for all the crimes committed in Ukraine and against Ukrainians. The ERA mechanism sets a precedent where russia begins to pay for the damage it caused to Ukraine. Using these funds will ensure a balanced 2025 State Budget, finance urgent military needs, and support social protection.”
A key priority remains sustainable economic growth, strengthening the financial system, and gradually reducing dependence on external financing. The Finance Minister noted that the Government continues to work actively in this direction.
In particular, the Government of Ukraine is committed to implementing reforms, which was also recognized by partners, including IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva. Recently, Ukraine successfully completed the fifth review of the IMF EFF Arrangement, performing all necessary conditions. Systematic work on the Ukraine Plan within the EU’s Ukraine Facility and other cooperation programs continues.
Sergii Marchenko also expressed gratitude to partners for their efforts in supporting Ukraine’s energy system. Governments and international financial organizations continue to mobilize resources for the recovery of the energy sector.