Head of State at Zhytomyr Regional Recovery Forum: we will help Ukraine rebuild itself

"Evil is devastating Europe again, but we will not let it win. Rebuilding Ukraine destroyed by the aggressor is a long journey, but we will make it shorter by working together," said President Alar Karis in the opening speech at the Zhytomyr Regional Recovery Forum in Tallinn. The Head of State stressed that Estonia will help Ukraine to recover from the consequences of Russian aggression, while continuing to provide military and humanitarian aid.

According to President Karis, Estonia will act according to Ukraine's own needs, plans and objectives: "Based on President Zelenskyy's appeal, we chose a specific region for cooperation - the Zhytomyr Oblast, where 1.3 million people lived before the outbreak of the Russian war on 24 February," said the Head of State. He added that several Estonian reconstruction projects are already underway there.

The President of the Republic called on other donor countries to join Estonia's efforts, as the effective rebuilding of Ukraine will be possible only through joint efforts of many countries and supporters. Estonia is already cooperating with Portugal in the reconstruction of the Zhytomyr Oblast.

President Karis emphasised that Estonia is ready to support the Ukrainian people with its experience and skills in reforming their society, calling it indispensable to reinforce the rule of law, including the need to establish an independent and professional judiciary, which is also important for attracting foreign investment and international support. "Success of the reforms will give Ukrainians more hope, increasing confidence and strengthening the desire and willingness to return home to rebuild Ukraine," he added.

President Karis also stressed the importance of economic cooperation. "Strong businesses and industries keep Ukraine's economy going and will contribute to their country's faster recovery. I encourage Estonian entrepreneurs to retain or create new business contacts and to look for investment opportunities, because there are plenty of them," said President Karis.

The Head of State also cited the example of Ukraine's commitment to the digital transformation, with Estonia having contributed its implementation by sharing experience and providing support.

This is the second Zhytomyr Regional Recovery Forum, organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The forum brings together around 180 participants, including Ukrainian MPs, representatives of local authorities, the diplomatic corps and Estonian entrepreneurs.