Zelensky, Varhelyi discuss energy security

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and EU Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement Oliver Varhelyi have discussed measures to ensure the energy security of Ukraine and the EU, the presidential press service has said.

"Specific measures to ensure the energy security of Ukraine and the EU in the context of modern security challenges were discussed separately during the meeting," the statement said.

Zelensky also praised the results of the Eastern Partnership summit held in Brussels last December, especially the approval of an ambitious Economic and Investment Plan for partner countries. According to the statement, the plan provides for the financing of reforms in a number of important areas by allocating funds for the implementation of specific projects.

In this regard, the head of state noted that one of the highest priorities for Ukraine is to ensure energy efficiency, because in 2022, the country is launching the program "Great Thermal Modernization," which will help insulate high-rise buildings, schools and hospitals across the country.

"Despite the current security challenges, Ukraine continues to implement important economic projects. Therefore, the EU's decision to allocate almost 2 billion euros for the implementation of investment projects in Ukraine is a concrete expression of support from our European partners. Along with the previously adopted decision of the European Commission to provide macro-financial assistance in the amount of 1.2 billion euros, this is an important contribution to the sustainable development of the Ukrainian economy," Zelensky said.

He thanked the European Union for its firm support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine and called for the preservation of the unity of all EU member states in these difficult conditions.

Varhelyi is on a visit to Ukraine on January 26-27.

On January 24, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that the European Commission would provide Ukraine with a new package of financial assistance worth EUR 1.2 billion.

According to her, this support will help Ukraine "to address financing needs due to the conflict and support the country's resilience-building efforts."

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