Odesa Region Recovery Forum: Transport. Logistics. Infrastructure.
On 4 August, Odesa hosted the Odesa Region Recovery Forum: Transport. Logistics. Infrastructure, which was the third event in the South of Ukraine dedicated to the today’s challenges and the post-war development of the region.
The forum was organised by the Regional Development Agency of Odesa Region and the Odesa Regional Military Administration with the support of the USAID GOVERLA Project.
Oleh Kiper, Head of the Odesa Regional State Administration, said in his welcoming speech that the development of transport and logistics infrastructure, restoration of social and critical infrastructure is an integral part of Ukraine’s reconstruction:
“Odesa region is a priority region of our country, and the development of transport infrastructure remains an important area of national economic reforms. I am confident that at the Forum we will be able to unlock the potential and challenges of Odesa region, develop effective mechanisms to restore transport infrastructure and develop alternative logistics routes for the export of Ukrainian products.”
Gabriel Abraham, the USAID HOVERLA Activity Chief of Party, emphasised that it is not just about restoring the functionality of the infrastructure, but about creating a solid foundation for the future:
“As the gateway to Ukraine, Odesa has faced significant challenges. It is now extremely important to restore communication between communities and provide access to basic services, invest in the restoration of roads, bridges and railways. We are not only improving transport, but also stimulating job creation, injecting new life into the local economy. An improved road and rail network will speed up the transport of goods to ports and make Odesa more competitive in the global market.”
Olena Ivanova, Head of the Office of Work with Territorial Communities of the Regional Development Agency of Odesa Region, explained the Agency’s role in the strategic planning process of the region’s development and recovery:
“We strive to create a favorable environment for investment, including the development of transport infrastructure and logistics, which are key to the efficient functioning of the economic complex. Our Agency brings together experts and specialists who can analyse the current state of the region, identify challenges and offer concrete solutions. We cooperate with the authorities, the business community and the public to ensure balanced and sustainable development. This forum has become an excellent opportunity to exchange views and experience in these areas. I hope that our joint work will serve as an example of how combined efforts can turn plans into reality.”
THE FORUM COVERED THE FOLLOWING TOPICS:
- synergy of the transport sector with other industries in the region;
- investments in transport infrastructure;
- attracting international expertise and technology transfer;
- logistics capabilities and new transport routes;
- the role of critical and social infrastructure in creating conditions for life and development in the region;
- critical infrastructure security and risk management;
- natural resources as a source of livelihoods;
- border infrastructure in ensuring economic development of Odesa region;
- integration of border infrastructure as an important element of European integration;
- development of port infrastructure, etc.
