Zelensky: We managed to open new path of economic life through EU
President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine delivered a video address on the implementation of the European Union's "Solidarity Lanes" initiative.
This was reported by the President’s Office, according to Ukrinform.
"Because of the full-scale war, most of Ukrainian exports and imports have halted. But we were able to open a new path of economic life through the territory of the European Union. And along this path of life, we have established a supply that is critically important not only for Ukraine, but also for the whole of Europe and many other countries – Europe's partners," Zelensky emphasized.
On the eve of the six-month anniversary of the EU initiative "Solidarity Lanes", he thanked the entire united Europe for its constant support of Ukraine. He also confirmed readiness to continue working together to further strengthen Europe.
The address, together with the speeches of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and leaders of the neighboring states, was broadcast on the main TV resource of the European Union institutions, Europe by Satellite, and other EU information platforms.
The EU initiative "Solidarity Lanes" was launched six months ago. Its purpose is to facilitate the establishment and improvement of alternative routes for the Ukrainian agricultural exports after Russia blocked such exports from the Ukrainian sea ports, as well as to ensure the possibility of importing goods required by Ukraine.
"Today, the European Commission together with the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development announced the allocation of an additional EUR 850 million as part of the initiative, while another EUR 100 million will come from the World Bank to support Ukrainian exports, in particular through the implementation of targeted joint projects," reported the President’s Office.
As reported earlier, the European Commission, the Czech Republic, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Moldova, Ukraine, the European Investment Bank, the EBRD, and the World Bank signed a joint declaration, which provides for the allocation of about EUR 1 billion to support the operation of "Solidarity Lanes" on the borders between Ukraine and the EU.
Photo: Ukrainian President’s Office