IMF Mission to Visit Kyiv in May for Key Talks with Ukrainian Government

Svydrydenko and Georgieva Hold Washington Meeting

According to Кабмін: Ukrainian Prime Minister Yuliia Svydrydenko met with International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva in Washington. The meeting took place during the IMF and World Bank Spring Meetings, where they discussed the implementation of a new four-year IMF program, the first tranche of which Ukraine has already received. This high-level engagement underscores the critical financial lifeline the IMF provides to Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict.

In March, Ukraine received the program's first disbursement of $1.5 billion under the Extended Fund Facility. Yuliia Svydrydenko noted that the previous cooperation program with the IMF was a historic success, as no country had ever undergone eight program reviews while fighting a full-scale war.

"We are determined to make this program equally successful, despite the brutality of Russia's ongoing war," she stated.

The Critical Role of IMF Cooperation

The Prime Minister also emphasized the continued importance of de-shadowing the economy, implementing reforms, and enhancing Ukraine's investment appeal. She confirmed an agreement for an IMF mission to visit Kyiv in May.

"We look forward to welcoming the IMF mission to Kyiv in May," Svydrydenko added.

Svydrydenko stressed that amid global conflicts, it is vital to maintain international focus on Ukraine.

"The IMF's role here is crucial-all our partners and donors look to the Fund," she said, highlighting that the IMF program is a top priority for her team.

She further underscored the importance of macroeconomic stability for supporting the Defense Forces.

"The majority of budget revenues go to defense, while the international assistance the IMF helps us attract covers critical social expenditures and the functioning of the state," she summarized.

The meeting between Yuliia Svydrydenko and Kristalina Georgieva occurred against the backdrop of the ongoing war, highlighting the essential support from international financial institutions. The IMF program is critically important for Ukraine, as it not only provides financial support but also helps attract investment and implement reforms necessary for economic stability. The IMF mission's visit to Kyiv in May could mark a significant step in further cooperation and the realization of planned measures.