European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos outlined several reasons why, despite the war, European businesses should actively invest in Ukraine. Among the main arguments, she highlighted the future reconstruction of the country, integration into the European Union, the development of Ukrainian defense technologies, and the transition to “green” energy solutions. These thoughts were expressed during the Ukraine-EU business summit, according to a correspondent from Radio Liberty.
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“In Ukraine, there is a saying – ‘to cook borscht together.’ It’s not just about preparing food; it’s more than that. It means joint, complex, patient work built on trust. Because everyone in Ukraine will tell you, making borscht is not that simple. Everyone has their favorite recipe. We need to listen to each other, adapt, and then find a recipe that suits everyone. And in the end – sit down together at the table,” she noted.
According to Kos, even in the face of uncertainty, there are several important aspects to consider, particularly that Ukraine is becoming increasingly integrated into the European economy. She emphasized that integration is happening not only during the accession to the EU but already now: “We have a choice – either our neighbors contribute to our prosperity and security, or they become a challenge to our security.”
Kos also pointed out that, in addition to military assistance, the European Union can help Ukraine achieve economic strength and energy independence. She spoke about a security energy package aimed at fully integrating Ukraine into the EU energy market by 2027.
Regarding defense cooperation, the commissioner stressed that the involvement of Ukraine’s high-tech defense industry could significantly strengthen Europe’s defense market. “Ukraine can become a huge asset for the European Union, which must take on more responsibility for its own security,” she said.
Furthermore, Kos mentioned a framework investment program for Ukraine totaling nearly 10 billion euros, aimed at attracting at least 40 billion euros in public and private investments over the next three years. “We created this program to help you minimize risks when investing in the reconstruction of Ukraine. Also because we want this reconstruction to contribute to Ukraine’s EU accession process – through the construction of housing, roads, bridges, and ports in accordance with European standards, including energy efficiency standards,” she emphasized.
Kos also announced that cooperation between Ukrainian businesses and the EU will continue in July at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome. “Investing in Ukraine today means investing in tomorrow’s Europe. In a future where a strong, democratic, and innovative Ukraine contributes to Europe’s prosperity just as much as to its security. And let’s do this together,” the commissioner urged.
Additionally, the head of the EU’s foreign policy service, Josep Borrell, announced the bloc’s intention to provide over 2 billion euros in revenue from frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine.