The aim is to build a lasting partnership with Poland, viewed as mutually beneficial for both sides, according to Oleksandra Azarchina, Deputy Minister of Development of Municipalities, Territories and Infrastructure of Ukraine. In her words, 2022 was dominated by survival projects prompted by the Russian invasion, and the focus shifted to preserving people and preventing a humanitarian crisis while stabilizing global food supply lines.
The deputy head of the ministry emphasized a clear priority: safeguard humanitarian stability and streamline export logistics to keep vital goods moving. After a year of reconstructing essential routes, Ukraine began addressing the backbone of critical infrastructure in 2022, with a pivot in 2023 toward social infrastructure.
Azarchina explained that nearly half of the allocated funds support housing needs while the remainder targets medical facilities, education, and shelter for those displaced or affected by the conflict.
The struggle for normalcy
Restoring the economy and generating employment for returnees remains a central challenge for Ukraine. The goal is to fill vacancies in the labor market so people contribute taxes, which in turn sustains the budget and supports essential services. Economic stability and Ukraine’s capacity to pay salaries to defenders are crucial components of this effort, noted the Secretary of State.
She added that the broader stability of regions and the country relies on work opportunities, allowing residents to resume ordinary lives more rapidly. The success of reconstruction depends on establishing transparent, fair rules that guide the entire process.
The ministry, in collaboration with the RISE UA coalition, identifies priority projects for reconstruction by measuring their direct impact on daily life. A comprehensive recovery plan will take shape when small towns present their plans to regional authorities. RISE UA is a coalition of Ukrainian and international non-governmental organizations, initiatives, government agencies, and activists committed to reconstruction and modernization through constructive dialogue with the government and international partners.
At the same time, Ukrainian authorities are pursuing a reform of regional policy. The plan aligns with the European Commission’s long-term reconstruction framework for 2027, as described by Azarchina.
Support from allies
Ukraine receives substantial support not only in funding but also in expertise from its partners. An analysis from Israeli experts assessed how Ukrainian civil aviation could operate during the conflict. Ukraine notes that Israel cannot single handedly establish new housing and shelter standards given the extent of rocket activity, but collaboration remains valuable.
Azarchina said that the details of construction standards have been coordinated with the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense. The new safeguards are built around three pillars: protection of residents in basic shelters, energy efficiency, and inclusivity. A coordination platform was created under the leadership of Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov to monitor reconstruction needs and guide project selection with informed judgments.
According to Azarchina, this platform will enable a better assessment of Ukraine’s reconstruction requirements and help determine which projects are feasible. Ukraine maintains open dialogue with its partners. G7 nations and international financial institutions participate in the coordination center, while Ukraine continues to broaden cooperation with potential partners offering financial backing and transfer of knowledge and experience.
Azarchina stated that discussions with Polish business leaders are underway to create favorable conditions for collaboration. The aim is a long-term partnership that should suit both sides, she noted with optimism.
Polish experience
Azarchina highlighted Poland’s notable expertise in establishing regional development funds. Poland excels at leveraging European Union funds to support regional growth and development. Ukraine has much to learn from this successful model, she observed.
When it comes to tenders for reconstruction work, Ukraine does not privilege any domestic or foreign company. However, given Poland’s financial support for border area development and infrastructure, Polish firms might be favored in some procurement scenarios.
Azarchina also pointed to two key challenges: financing and access to technology. She described Ukraine as a platform for innovative solutions and a promising place for investment. The steps taken by the Polish government to back Polish businesses in Ukraine, and to strengthen Polish-Ukrainian cooperation across sectors, were acknowledged as impressive by the deputy minister.
There has been a broader emphasis on solidifying cooperation with partners who can provide financial support as well as know-how. These efforts aim to accelerate Ukraine’s progress in reconstruction and modernization, even amid ongoing conflict. Overall, Ukraine continues to pursue constructive collaboration with Poland and other allies to advance a stable rebuilding path that benefits both nations.
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