During a working trip to the Ivano-Frankivsk region, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy took part in the presentation of the Region Development Strategy until 2027.
At the beginning of his speech, the Head of State said that his working trip began with a visit to the village of Lanchyn, which was affected by floods in June. According to him, the authorities reacted quickly and effectively to overcome the consequences of the disaster.
"But this is not the first flood in the history of Ukraine. We are forced to deal with the consequences, but we need to think about preventing such things. This problem requires comprehensive, systemic solutions. And they exist. There is a successful international experience, but in the previous years it was not interesting for the authorities. As well as other very important things, which are a priority for us today," the President stressed.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that now they have to build the country almost from scratch, "and in some cases - even from minus".
"We want to change this approach and build a country that is always ready for anything. Which recalls its own army not when the war begins. And recalls its own medicine not when COVID-19 happens. We are building a country that will always be a few steps ahead," the President said.
According to him, this process is complex and long, but it is quite possible if every citizen takes an active part in the development of his community and region.
The Head of State reminded that after decentralization, the regions received funding and effective tools for development.
"And on October 25, in the local elections, they will be able to reset the local government to move their land forward, to success. And the development strategy of each region is a road map on this important, difficult path," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
Speaking about the peculiarities of the Ivano-Frankivsk region, the President noted that it is an attractive region for tourists with a significant historical and cultural heritage.
"In addition, your region has the potential for the development of renewable energy and organic production. And also - for the development of SMEs and the support of large businesses. As proof - recently, according to Forbes, Ivano-Frankivsk was recognized as the best city for doing business in Ukraine. And I sincerely congratulate you on this," the Head of State said.
At the same time, according to him, it is necessary to clearly understand the problems of the region, which must be solved.
"The region lacks a waste processing plant and modern waste treatment facilities. And 90% of local roads need repair. All this can and should be corrected, and for our part we are ready to fully assist the local authorities," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
