Ukrainian PM calls for expanding Multi-agency Donor Coordination Platform for Ukraine

MOSCOW. Dec 20 (Interfax) - The top priority for the Multi-agency Donor Coordination Platform for Ukraine in 2024 would be mobilizing budget financing, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denis Shmygal said.

"Ukraine hopes for continued financial support from international partners, and the Donor Platform's main target for 2024 is precisely mobilizing budget financing," Ukraine media quoted Shmygal as saying in a statement at a meeting of the platform's Steering Committee circulated by his press service.

The amount of budget support to Ukraine from its partners in 2023 should exceed $40 billion, he said.

"This substantial aid has played an important role in enabling our government to finance such important expenditures as pensions, healthcare, education, social programs and benefits. This funding has helped Ukraine stand fast and refocus its internal resources on financing our military and defense capability," Shmygal said.

It is important to make sure that this budget support remains regular and timely, he said.

In this context, Shmygal proposed considering the platform's enlargement as yet another strategic objective.

"This could become an efficient tool for mobilizing additional aid. Engaging more partner countries willing to undertake obligations concerning Ukraine's budget financing is vital for reinforcing our common efforts," he said.