By KYIV. Dec 22 (Interfax-Ukraine) – Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal says that between 5 million and 7 million Ukrainians remain abroad, and they will return more actively in the spring.
"According to various estimates, from 5 million to 7 million Ukrainians now have to stay abroad. But up to 90% of those who left want to return home. These are the data of opinion polls. We clearly understand that Ukrainians will return more actively in the spring," Shmyhal said in an exclusive interview with Interfax-Ukraine.
The prime minister emphasized that three components are required for the return of citizens: work, housing and security.
"As for work. We launched the eWork program, four areas are already working. These are grants for own business, planting a garden and greenhouses for processing enterprises. Through fiscal, regulatory and credit incentives, we are now helping businesses, first of all, so that businesses create jobs. Reducing unemployment is one of the main tasks currently facing the Ministry of Economy," he said.
Also, according to the prime minister, the eOselia (eHouse) program has been launched, and almost 300 first mortgages have already been issued under it.
"The third issue is security. The entire team led by the President of Ukraine is working to increase the supply of air defense systems. We have already received NASAMS, HAWK, IRIS-T, and Crotale from our partners. We are expecting SAMP/T. During Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to the United States, the United States officially confirmed the upcoming transfer of Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine. This is our work on the issue of security," he added.
Among other things, Shmyhal stressed that Ukrainians should also see the prospect of restoring and developing the country after the war, so the strategic task is Ukraine in the EU not in a decade, but in two-three years.
"And the second part of this point is a big Recovery Plan that we are working on with our allies. Our partners are very interested and will support us here. These four components, I am sure, will give people the understanding that there is a good and safe future for them and their children in Ukraine. Then people will come back," he concluded.
