Statement by the Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal at a Government session

I greet everyone, dear colleagues, dear Ukrainians.

In the face of an all-out war against a much larger enemy, our state needs to accumulate all possible resources aimed not just to survive, but to win as well. russia's economy surpasses ours at least eight times. This means that we need to be far more effective and set right priorities.

Our Government has always aimed to be a responsible borrower. The more so, there is a global understanding of the unprecedented scale of challenges that the Ukrainian state is currently facing. Therefore, we had an honest conversation with our creditors and secured their support in the matter of postponing payments on Ukraine's external obligations until the end of 2023, with the possibility of extending this period for another year. As a result, Ukraine will save about UAH 200 billion, which will be directed to other topmost priority needs: payments to the military, pensions, social programs, and support for economy.

Actually, this is that very priority we need to win this war.

Meanwhile, we continue dozens of negotiations regarding the expansion of financial and targeted support programs crucial for our state.

Yesterday, the European Investment Bank agreed to disburse EUR 1.6 billion to Ukraine, with a EUR 1 billion out of this sum to be allocated promptly. This resource will be used for measures to gear up for the heating season, restoration of damaged electricity, water and heat supply facilities as well as other residential and communal infrastructure objects. We are to approve the corresponding protocol order today.

We will also approve the appeal of the Government of Ukraine to the Government of the United States of America regarding the provision of a "gas lend-lease" to our state to ensure a stable heating season. Preparations for the most challenging winter in our history continue, and in this process we are looking for all possible tools to get ready for any scenario.

Undoubtedly, the support of our allies today is one of the two main pillars of Ukraine's economic stability. The second key element is an efficient economy.

This month, we have launched the eRobota program, which provides non-refundable grants for the creation of startups. Over 5,000 applications have already been received in this short period of time. They are currently being processed, and almost 500 grants will be approved in the near future. The fact that our citizens are ready to open new businesses, invest their own money, work and seek new opportunities is another argument that we cannot be defeated.

Regarding the creation of new jobs. The Government program to pay UAH 6.5 thousand for hiring internally displaced persons prolongs. About 9 thousand people are already employed under this program. Likewise, we continue payments under other social programs. Pensions in July are already 100% funded. UAH 49 billion was transferred for these puposes. This is 15% more than in July last year.

Another urgent issue is new logistics routes and increasing Ukraine's export potential. What has been achieved in these months? Visa-free transport regime with the EU, cancellation of customs duties and quotas for Ukrainian products when exported to Europe, Canada and Great Britain, new checkpoints on the western border of Ukraine, extention of the potential of the Danube River ports on the territory of Ukraine. Currently, the Danube is one of the core export routes, and therefore the Government continues to enlarge its potential. Today we will adopt changes to the regulations on the border regime, thereby allowing the fleet to carry out bunkering operations, that is, to refuel ships right near the ports of Reni and Izmail. This will help us increase the speed and significantly facilitate the logistics of export-import cargo.

We continue to work for the victory. Glory to Ukraine!