“Our goal is to develop a long-term partnership with Poland, as we believe that such a form will be suitable for both sides,” said Oleksandra Azarchina, Deputy Minister of Development of Municipalities, Territories and Infrastructure of Ukraine. According to her, 2022 was the year of “survival projects” related to the Russian invasion.
We had to prevent a humanitarian crisis in the country and an exacerbation of the world’s hunger problem. We have focused on export logistics
noted the deputy head of the ministry.
Last year, the reconstruction of roads and bridges, i.e. the main critical infrastructure, started in Ukraine, while in 2023 the focus will be more on the social infrastructure.
Almost half of the money goes to housing, the remaining costs go to the renewal of the medical infrastructure, education and providing shelter to people
Azarchina explained.
The struggle for normalcy
Restoring the economy and creating jobs for citizens returning to the country remains a topical issue for Ukraine.
We try to fill vacancies on the labor market so that citizens pay taxes and thus contribute to the budget, this our struggle for normalcy. Economic stability and Ukraine’s ability to pay salaries to our defenders remains a very important aspect
explained the Secretary of State.
She added that this is a matter of the stability of the regions and the state as a whole in times of war. Where there is work, people can return to normal life more quickly, and the success of reconstruction depends on creating transparent and fair rules of the game.
The ministry, together with the “RISE UA” coalition, determines the priority objects to be rebuilt first, taking into account their impact on the lives of citizens. A comprehensive recovery plan will be possible when small towns submit their own plans to regional authorities. “RISE UA” is a coalition of Ukrainian and international NGOs, initiatives, government agencies and activists supporting the principles of reconstruction and modernization of Ukraine through constructive dialogue with the government and international partners.
At the same time, the Ukrainian authorities are working on a change of regional policy.
Primarily, it is related to the plan proposed to Ukraine by the European Commission in the plan for the long-term reconstruction of the country until 2027.
said Azarchina.
Support from allies
Ukraine receives enormous support, not only financially, but also from experts of its allies. And from Israel we received an analysis on the possibility of the functioning of Ukrainian civil aviation during the war
she inquired. She added that Israel alone cannot help Ukraine develop a new standard for building homes and shelters because it has never been in contact with such a number of rocket attacks.
According to the deputy minister, the details of the new construction standards have been agreed with the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine. They must meet three conditions: protection of citizens in basic shelters, energy efficiency and inclusiveness.
A platform was created on the basis of the coordination center, co-founded by Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine Oleksandr Kubrakow.
This will provide us with an analysis of the needs of the reconstruction of Ukraine and allow us to make an informed decision on which projects can be implemented. Ukraine maintains an open dialogue with its partners
says Azarchina.
G7 countries and international financial institutions cooperate with the coordination center, while Ukraine is constantly working to improve and expand cooperation with potential partners who support the country through financial support, as well as through the transfer of experience and knowledge.
As the deputy minister said, Ukraine is currently holding talks with Polish business representatives to create appropriate conditions for cooperation.
Our goal is to create a long-term partnership. We believe that this form will be suitable for both parties
she explained.
Polish experience
Azarchina added that Poland has exceptional experience in setting up regional development funds.
Poland is a master in using funds received from the EU and supporting the development of specific regions with their help. Ukraine has a lot to learn from Poland
she noted.
Our country cannot have a preference as to which companies would participate in tenders related to the reconstruction of the country. However, I would like to point out that when we talk about cooperation between Ukraine and Poland, for example, due to the fact that Poland gives Ukraine a loan for the development of border areas and infrastructure, preference will be given to Polish companies.
noted the Secretary of State.
She explained that Ukraine currently faces two problems: the first is financing and the second is access to technology. He points out that the country is currently a platform for unique solutions and a potentially interesting place to invest.
I must admit that the steps taken by the Polish government to support Polish business in Ukraine, but also to strengthen Polish-Ukrainian cooperation in various fields, are impressive.
– said Deputy Minister Azarchina.
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edy/PAP
Source: wPolityce