5. Juli 2022 Offizielle Erklärung der Bundesregierung durch Ministerin Svenja Schulze bei der Ukraine Recovery Conference in Lugano (englisch)

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President Cassis,
Prime Minister Shmyhal,
esteemed colleagues,

Every day that Russia continues its heinous war against Ukraine is a day too long. We are united in our solidarity with Ukraine and with the affected partners in the region and across the world.

The reconstruction of a free and democratic Ukraine is our common goal. Reconstruction, recovery, reforms – these are the elements of what we see as a strategic task for the coming years. That is why Germany will host an international expert conference on reconstruction and recovery and is ready to host the „Ukraine Reform Conference“ in 2024.

I express my great appreciation to the Ukrainian government for its reconstruction plan.

I also welcome the Lugano Principles, which provide guidance for the efforts ahead. In my view, four aspects are crucial for forward-looking reconstruction:

First, reconstruction must be socially just, climate neutral and holistic. It must include strengthening local governance to meet the needs of all citizens. Women must play a crucial role in shaping Ukraine's future.

Second, we need the right tools and a strong coordination mechanism with strong ownership by the Ukrainian government. A platform for the reconstruction of Ukraine should bring together the Ukrainian government and all bilateral, European and international partners as well as relevant parties and experts.

Third, Ukraine is part of the European family and the free world. Support should go hand in hand with democratic and economic reforms and be in line with Ukraine's EU accession process.

Finally, financial resources are urgently needed for this recovery to be successful. For the German Government, I repeat the Elmau pledge: 426 million euros in grants for direct support to Ukraine.

In addition, Germany is supporting countries affected by Russia's war in the region and tackle the war's global consequences.

This conference is a good opportunity to strengthen our unity and once again express our full solidarity with Ukraine.