Ukraine can become an important destination for German investments
Financial support, defense cooperation, investments and the restoration of Ukraine are the main topics of negotiations with the German Government during the visit of the Ukrainian Government delegation to Berlin. This was announced by Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal during a press conference.
"As Chancellor Olaf Scholz noted, investing in Ukraine means investing in a future member of the European Union. And I would add that those who are doing this now will receive special attention and special opportunities," said Denys Shmyhal.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of rebuilding Ukraine on the principle of "Build Back Better", which is also shared by the German colleagues.
"It is essential that our partners not just understand, but take the lead in this approach. We want German businesses to invest in Ukraine, in rebuilding. A number of important documents will be signed at the forum. Ukraine can become an extremely popular destination for German investments, and our countries will benefit from this," he emphasized.
Another key topic of the talks was defense support for Ukraine. The Prime Minister noted that Ukraine hoped to receive increased funding for defense assistance as part of Germany's budget planning for 2024. He also emphasized that Ukraine was developing its domestic defense industry, investing in technology, new production facilities, and attracting new partners.
The Prime Minister also drew the attention of German and European partners to the issue of using frozen russian assets. He reminded that the first compensation element, the International Register of Damage, has already been created. Work is now underway to establish the International Compensation Commission and the International Compensation Fund.
"The aggressor has to pay, and russian frozen assets are a significant source for Ukraine's recovery in the future. Neither German nor European taxpayers, nor Ukrainians should pay for the devastation that russia is causing in Ukraine," the Prime Minister said.
During the visit, the parties also touched upon the issue of sanctions. According to Denys Shmyhal, it is crucial to sanction the russian nuclear energy and diamond industry, as well as to strengthen sanctions against the oil and gas industries and to enhance control over compliance with the established restrictions.
Denys Shmyhal thanked the Government and people of Germany for their solidarity and assistance in all areas.