Global business is increasingly investing in Ukraine – media

Global business is increasingly placing its faith in Ukraine. While previously our country was perceived primarily as a state in need of assistance, it is now increasingly viewed as a promising place for investment.

The New York Times writes about this.

As the publication notes, the change in sentiment was evidenced by the conference on the reconstruction of Ukraine. While a few years ago the main topics were humanitarian and financial support, now there is more and more talk about new investments, business development, and long-term projects.

According to the event participants, many companies are already betting that Ukraine will survive the war, maintain its independence, and after its end, become one of the largest markets in Europe.

And it’s not just talk. For example, the Export-Import Bank of the United States has opened a $300 million credit line for Naftogaz. The money will go towards purchasing American machinery and equipment for the development of the gas industry.

In addition, investors are attracted by Ukraine’s large natural gas reserves, estimated to be worth about $300 billion.

Among those who are already investing in Ukraine is former Google CEO Eric Schmidt. Together with his wife, he invested in commercial real estate in Kyiv. According to Forbes, this is about $55-70 million. Schmidt also finances Ukrainian companies that produce drones.

Another major investor is the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, which has announced over $570 million in new investments, a significant portion of which is planned to be directed towards energy development.

At the same time, The New York Times notes that there has been no massive influx of new private capital yet. But international companies that were operating in Ukraine before the full-scale invasion are not only staying but also expanding their business. This, according to the publication, is one of the best signals that the world is increasingly confident in the future of the Ukrainian economy.