Slovakia Set Up Fund for Ukraine's Reconstruction But No Money in It Yet

Bratislava, 8 April (TASR) - Slovakia is gradually building the capacity to participate in Ukraine's reconstruction and has set up its own fund, which will be managed by the Vice-premier's Office for the Recovery Plan and a Knowledge-based Economy, according to an annual report on the status of implementing the strategic framework for Slovakia's involvement in the reconstruction of Ukraine, which the office submitted and the government took note of at its meeting on Wednesday. A special financial tool called the Slovak Multi-Donor Facility for Ukraine is intended to pool and effectively utilise financial contributions from Slovakia and international donors. According to the report, it hasn't yet been funded. "Without an initial financial contribution from the Slovak Republic, it's unlikely that external donors will join the fund," noted the office, which views it as an opportunity to establish itself as a trusted intermediary between international donors and Ukrainian partners. "The Slovak Republic's involvement in Ukraine's reconstruction is not merely an expression of solidarity; it represents a rational investment in its own security, stability and economic development," emphasised the vice-premier's office, highlighting opportunities for Slovak businesses and the development of eastern Slovakia's regions. am/df