In Dnipro, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with the business community of the Dnipro region, including leaders and representatives from companies in heavy and light industries, machine manufacturing, agriculture, meat and dairy production, retail, and banking.
The Head of State thanked entrepreneurs for continuing their work during the war and praised local authorities and power engineers for successfully getting through the winter.
“Today, you are number one in Ukraine in terms of GDP, and we are incredibly grateful. Thank you to the region and to all Dnipro residents for this. It's clear that many businesses have relocated from the east, and a lot of people have left since the full-scale invasion began. Even so, your contribution to Ukraine's economy is the largest today,” the President emphasized.
During the meeting, the parties discussed state support for localizing production, stimulating investment in domestic industry, and ensuring the competitiveness of Ukrainian enterprises in both domestic and foreign markets. They also addressed the state's plans for economic recovery and the sustainable development of the national economy after the war.
The President noted that he expects relevant proposals from the Cabinet of Ministers, particularly regarding customs and tariff policy, aimed at supporting Ukrainian producers. According to him, these changes should be absolutely decisive.
“I believe we will be able to engage with our partners, and they will understand that Ukraine requires substantial assistance, regardless of what happens after the war. There are global and European regulations, but we need to rebuild the country after the war. I think they will also meet us halfway on many issues,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
According to him, Germany, the Nordic countries, France, and the United Kingdom will offer investment in Ukraine's reconstruction without focusing solely on their own companies. After all, our partners know that the priority role of Ukrainian businesses in the recovery process is important to us.
"Reconstruction money is a strong incentive for people to return to Ukraine. Jobs, high wages, and security," the President noted.
The Head of State is confident that Ukraine will find ways to secure investment not only by using frozen Russian assets but also with the support of its partners.
First Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Economy of Ukraine, Yuliia Svyrydenko, reiterated that the Government fully supports the position of primarily involving Ukrainian enterprises in reconstruction efforts, as it presents an opportunity for domestic economic growth.
Additionally, the state will review requests to strengthen measures that protect its domestic market from dumped imports. Another key priority is developing support mechanisms for businesses in frontline areas. Relevant work is already underway to enhance the existing tools established under the Made in Ukraine state policy.
