The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine ratified the Agreement between the Government of Ukraine and the Government of the Republic of Slovenia on technical and financial cooperation. The document creates a legal basis for attracting Slovenian assistance to priority areas of the development of our country, opening up broad prospects for local governments to implement joint projects.

The Agreement defines more than 20 areas of cooperation, most of which directly relate to the competence of local governments and the powers of communities. The following are among the key areas where communities will be able to draw on Slovenian experience and funding:

• Restoration and infrastructure: modernisation of local infrastructure, urban development, improvement of energy efficiency in buildings and public facilities.
• Housing and utilities: projects in water supply, sewage, modernisation of wastewater management systems and treatment facilities.
• Ecology and environmental protection: improvement of the environment, protection of biodiversity, promotion of a ‘green’ transition at the local level.
• Energy sector: introduction of modern energy solutions, development of renewable energy sources for community needs.
• Social sector: support for health programmes, including medical rehabilitation, improvement of social policy, development of education and vocational training.
• Economic development: facilitation of economic recovery of territories, attraction of investments, and support for local businesses.

The Agreement specifically supports the processes of decentralisation and modernisation of local self-government, which is a direct recognition of Ukraine’s European course and the importance of developing capable communities.

Coordination of cooperation on the Ukrainian side will be performed by the Secretariat of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine. Direct communication regarding the Agreement will take place through embassies. To implement specific projects and programmes, the parties may conclude additional Memoranda of Understanding.

Importantly, programmes and projects must comply with the principles of ‘ownership, local characteristics and needs of Ukraine’. In other words, initiatives proposed for funding must take into account the real needs of communities and their specific characteristics.

The Agreement provides for tax-free goods, works, and services provided under programmes and projects. Equipment and materials necessary for the implementation of joint initiatives will not be subject to customs duties and VAT when imported into Ukraine, which will significantly reduce the cost of projects for beneficiary communities.

The ratification of this Agreement is an important step towards deepening bilateral relations and the practical integration of Ukraine into the European space. For local governments, this is a real tool for attracting additional resources and Slovenian experience to address pressing issues of local development, restoration, and improvement of services for community residents. Work on identifying priority projects and programmes within the areas specified in the agreement is expected to begin in the near future.