Donor Platform hails 2 programs to prepare projects for Ukraine

MOSCOW. Oct 11 (Interfax) - The Framework for Project Preparation for Ukraine envisages the promotion of two programs, including one to be administered by the government with the support of the World Bank, and the other, called FIRST, to be administered by the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).

The Steering Committee of the Multi-agency Donor Coordination Platform has approved the framework concept, Ukrainian media said, citing a committee after its 11th meeting held on October 9.

"We welcome the announced, and look forward to future, donor contributions in support of the facilities. We called for the swift implementation of the concept, including developing clear eligibility criteria for routing projects to specific facilities," the communique said.

An important element will be a Project Preparation Unit, firmly embedded in the Public Investment Management system, and engaging with regions and local communities, it said.

"This system should ensure effective coordination among existing and future Project Preparation Facilities, taking into account Ukraine's EU accession path," the communique said.

The committee commended the re-launching of Kiev-based Sector Working Groups, which provide a Government of Ukraine-led in-country coordination structure to complement the Ukraine Donor Platform's work. This mechanism contributes to donors' ability to collectively and effectively support Ukraine's priorities, including in implementing the reforms.

"We also committed to start laying the groundwork for galvanizing support to the Platform's operation on the ground, including by increasing its presence and capabilities in Kiev," it said.