Ukraine and Slovenia sign memorandum on cooperation in regional development

On 30 October in Kyiv, Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration of Ukraine and Minister for Communities and Territories Development Oleksii Kuleba met with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia Tanja Fajon.

During the meeting, the parties discussed joint projects for regional development, Slovenia’s participation in Ukraine’s reconstruction, support for communities during winter, and protection of energy facilities and critical infrastructure.

Following the talks, a Memorandum on Cooperation in Regional Development was signed, opening a new phase of partnership between Ukraine and Slovenia. The document provides for expanded cooperation between Ukrainian communities and Slovenian municipalities, joint initiatives under the “Shoulder to Shoulder: United Communities” project, and the implementation of European approaches to regional policy.

“Today, more than ever, it is vital to develop partnerships between communities and strengthen these ties. Interaction at the local level enables real change: in reconstruction, security, and quality of life. We are grateful to Slovenia for its consistent support and for projects that help communities prepare for winter, restore social facilities, and protect infrastructure. Strong communities are the foundation of our European integration. Slovenia serves as an example for us of effective regional policy, solidarity, and sustainable development,” noted Oleksii Kuleba.

Currently, 28 Ukrainian and Slovenian communities have established partnerships, including Bucha and Kočevje, Kharkiv and Maribor, Chortkiv and Grosuplje, Drohobych and Hrastnik, and Pereshchepyne and Idrija.

Thanks to this cooperation, several concrete projects have been implemented: a Children’s Rehabilitation Centre for those with special needs opened in Zarychany (Zhytomyr region), a Psychological Assistance Centre in Kharkiv, homes for foster families in Khmelnytskyi region, a waste-to-biofuel processing plant in Lviv, and water treatment facilities in Zhytomyr.

For 2026, the construction of a water pipeline in the village of Cherche in Ivano-Frankivsk region (EUR 200,000) and the creation of a bomb shelter and canteen for educational institutions under the Olena Zelenska Foundation project (EUR 350,000) are planned.

The Ukrainian side also urged Slovenia to join efforts to protect critical infrastructure through the supply of equipment, exchange of technical solutions, and sharing experience in enhancing energy resilience.

“The security situation remains challenging. Every day, the enemy attacks our energy, water, and transport facilities. Its goal is to deprive people of heat, light, and water. We are grateful to partners who help us withstand this, but the needs remain significant. We must ensure the most stable possible winter for people,” emphasised Oleksii Kuleba.