Zelensky calls on Trump to sign free trade agreement with Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he is discussing with the United States the possibility of a free trade agreement as part of a broader package of economic growth and post-war recovery. The President said this in a telephone interview with Bloomberg on 9 January.
According to Zelenskyy, a potential agreement could provide for zero tariffs in trade between Ukraine and the United States and apply to certain industrialised regions of Ukraine. Such a format, the president emphasised, would give Kyiv «very serious cards» in competition with neighbouring states and could become a powerful incentive to attract investment and relocate businesses.
The Head of State stressed that the initiative is part of a comprehensive approach to post-war reconstruction, which should combine security guarantees, international financial support and economic integration with key partners. In his opinion, a free trade agreement with the US could significantly accelerate the recovery of industry and exports.
Zelenskyy also noted that the issue of free trade is being discussed in the context of a dialogue with the administration of US President Donald Trump, which, according to him, demonstrates interest in new economic formats of cooperation with Ukraine after the active phase of the war is over.
Фото: Bloomberg.
