Prime Minister Shmikhali of Ukraine gave a keynote speech at the Japan-Ukraine Economic Reconstruction Promotion Conference held in Tokyo, saying, ``This is the next step in developing relations between our two countries.By working together, we will achieve growth and prosperity.'' "We can turn this into an opportunity for the future," he said, expressing his desire to strengthen cooperation with Japan in the economic field.
Prime Minister Šmihali emphasized, ``Japan's experience of reconstruction and the miracle of economic development provide us with inspiration. We would like to learn from Japan's economic policies.''
He then appealed that ``the driving force behind Ukraine's economic recovery is the private sector,'' and expressed hope for Japanese technology and investment in the fields of energy and agriculture, as well as improving infrastructure such as roads, railways, and bridges that were damaged during the Russian invasion. In addition to calling on Japanese automakers to set up manufacturing bases in Ukraine,
He also appealed to countries to allocate frozen Russian assets to finance reconstruction, citing the huge amount of funds needed for reconstruction.
Prime Minister Shmihaly concluded by saying, ``All eyes are on how the world will react to Russia's atrocities and violations of international law.Today's Ukraine may be tomorrow's East Asia.Ukraine is living in dark times.'' "However, there is a glimmer of hope. Hope is created by people. Ukrainians will never forget Japan's strength, leadership, and kindness."