Ukraine is interested in deepening cooperation with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), in particular, in reforming the energy sector, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has said.
“Ukraine is particularly interested in deepening cooperation with the EBRD in energy reform,” he said at a meeting with an EBRD delegation led by EBRD President Suma Chakrabarti.
The parties discussed the progress of reforms in Ukraine, in particular reforms designed to fight against corruption, and reforms in the energy and banking sectors.
“The president emphasized that Ukraine highly appreciates cooperation with the EBRD and is interested in broadening that cooperation. The head of state noted that Ukraine is holding reforms despite all the difficulties,” the press service said.
Poroshenko highlighted the importance of further interaction with EBRD in both the public and private sectors, adding that the actions of the National Bank of Ukraine and the Ministry of Finance had stabilized the banking sector.
“Currently, the banking sector is more transparent and efficient,” the president said.
Poroshenko also discussed his plan for privatization.
“It will be absolutely transparent,” the president said.
Poroshenko drew attention to the efficient introduction of the electronic public procurement system.
In turn, Chakrabarti said that cooperation with Ukraine is important for the EBRD.
“Ukraine is facing tough challenges,” he said, however he pointed out the efficiency of the Ukrainian government.
The EBRD President emphasized the importance of coordination in determining the assistance required by Ukraine.
EBRD Managing Director for Eastern Europe and the Caucasus Francis Malige said that his conversations with Ukrainian businesspeople make him optimistic about the future of Ukraine.
According to him, despite all the difficulties in the country, Ukrainian entrepreneurs are trying to reorient their business model to exports to EU countries. He believes that economic growth of Ukraine will depend on its national products. Thus, it is very important for Ukraine to make the right steps and support entrepreneurship.
