Citi to lend Ukraine GBP26.3 mln to repair bridges near Kiev

MOSCOW. June 22 (Interfax) - Ukraine will receive a loan of GBP26.3 million from Citigroup Inc. under guarantees from UK Export Finance (UKEF) to repair bridges near Kiev.

"In an unprecedented transaction from any export credit agency, UKEF has agreed to issue a buyer credit loan guarantee that allows the Ukrainian government to access financing from Citi, unlocking crucial funds" for Kiev region's road service, Ukrainian media reported, citing a press release on the UK government's website.

The financing will allow the Ukrainian government to start rebuilding six bridges and reopen vital supply routes near Kiev, the release said.

The export credit is part of over GBP4.7 billion in non-military assistance that the UK has provided to Ukraine, it said.

"This financial backing also enables the reconstruction project to draw upon support from UK manufacturers, who are expected to supply steel components, critical materials and design services to principal contractors Onur Group and Doguş. This will in turn support UK jobs and help deliver on the Prime Minister's priority of growing the economy," the release said.