U.S. DFC to mobilize $1 bln for Ukraine

MOSCOW. Feb 1 (Interfax) - The United States International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) Chief Executive Office Scott Nathan has announced plans to mobilize $250 million to help Ukrainian banks increase their small business lending.

Speaking at the American Chamber of Commerce in Kiev on Wednesday, Nathan also unveiled two letters of intent to explore new investments, Ukrainian media said.

In particular, DFC is launching cooperation with Horizon Capital to support e-commerce, fintech and technology businesses in Ukraine and Moldova.

DFC is also exploring the expansion of the Dobrobut chain of clinics in Kiev, which provide post-surgical support, rehabilitation and prosthetic services.

"The private sector is resilient and has a crucial role to play in investing for Ukraine's future," Nathan said.

"I'm here in Kiev today because we are investing now to help keep Ukrainian businesses moving forward despite the difficult circumstances. I'm convinced that new DFC investments here will mobilize well over $1 billion in private sector capital to support the economy of Ukraine. DFC remains committed to supporting high-standard, high-value projects in this country in the months and years to come," he said.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denis Shmygal, in turn, said that American business may play an important role in restoring Ukraine's energy sector.

"We would be grateful for DFC's work, including in this field," Shmygal said.

DFC is the U.S. government's development finance institution, which cooperates with the private sector to finance solutions to the most serious problems facing emerging economies. DFC invests in all sectors, including energy, healthcare and critical infrastructure.