Continuing the successful cooperation between Ukraine and the EBRD in the context of countering the aggressive policy of the russian federation is of strategic importance for security, stability and prosperity of the European continent. This was emphasised by Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal during a meeting with President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development Odile Renaud-Basso.

The parties discussed areas of cooperation and the implementation of joint projects for the restoration and development of Ukraine.

“We greatly appreciate the EBRD’s support for Ukraine’s needs in these extremely difficult times. I would like 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,” said Denys Shmyhal.

The Prime Minister particularly 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. According to the Head of Government, projects to protect and restore the grid infrastructure are already underway.

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

Denys Shmyhal 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 its cooperation with Ukravtodor.

The Prime Minister praised the EBRD’s recent decision to provide EUR 25 million to support agricultural business in Ukraine and welcomed the Bank’s participation in the Multi-agency Donor Coordination Platform.

“We look forward to the EBRD’s active involvement in the implementation of the priority recovery within the framework of the EBRD’s assistance portfolio of up to EUR 1.5 billion planned for 2023,” Denys Shmyhal said.

According to Odile Renaud-Basso, the EBRD plans to focus on the following areas of work in Ukraine this year: 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.