SHORT:
At a German-Ukrainian business event in Berlin, Scholz said that investing in Ukraine now is like investing in a country that will join the EU in the future.
He was hopeful about Ukraine’s growth after the war, pointing to how Eastern European countries grew after joining the EU following the end of the Soviet Union.
Scholz mentioned that trade between Germany and Ukraine increased from about eight billion euros in 2021 to nearly ten billion euros 2023, with around 2,000 German companies working in Ukraine.
He encouraged more cooperation in Ukraine’s energy industry, which has been damaged by Russian attacks, and emphasized the importance of strong private investment.
Scholz also confirmed that Germany will continue to help Ukraine reach a “fair peace” that supports its independence and future in Europe.
