URC 2026 should become a conference of practical solutions for Ukraine’s economic recovery

The Ukraine Recovery Conference 2026 (URC 2026), which will take place on 25–26 June in Gdańsk, Poland, should serve as a platform for concrete solutions that will help Ukraine accelerate its economic recovery, attract investment and develop the private sector. This was the focus of a meeting between the Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine, Denys Bashlyk, and the World Bank’s Regional Country Director for Eastern Europe, Bob Saum.

The parties discussed the World Bank’s participation in URC 2026 and the results that Ukraine and its international partners can present during the conference. The Bank is currently finalising a high-level delegation to take part in the URC events. For Ukraine, this is particularly important, as the World Bank is one of the key partners in financing recovery, supporting reforms and creating mechanisms to attract private investment, even in wartime conditions.

Particular attention was paid to the business dimension of the URC – one of the central themes of the conference, dedicated to investment, private sector development and the involvement of business in Ukraine’s recovery.

“URC 2026 should become a platform for political dialogue and a space for concrete solutions. It is important for Ukraine that the conference delivers practical instruments in the areas of investment, business development, energy modernisation, human capital support and the restoration of critical infrastructure. The World Bank is one of Ukraine’s key partners in this work, and we count on the active participation of your team in Gdańsk,” noted Denys Bashlyk.

In addition to the business track, the parties discussed the World Bank’s involvement in other parts of the URC 2026 programme, particularly in the areas of education, youth and human capital development. The Deputy Minister stressed that the country’s recovery also means jobs, entrepreneurship, education and the ability of the economy to grow even during wartime. That is why it is essential to prepare solutions for the URC that will bring real, practical benefits to citizens, businesses and the state.

At the end of the meeting, Denys Bashlyk thanked the World Bank for its consistent support to Ukraine and its contribution to previous recovery conferences. The parties agreed to continue coordinating preparations for URC 2026, including the World Bank’s participation in panel discussions, workshops and the development of solutions that can receive further financial support and be translated into specific recovery projects.