This is a key event dedicated to discussing critical geopolitical and security issues in the Black Sea region, emphasising Ukraine’s central role in regional security and stability in Europe and the world.
Despite the naval blockade, Odesa continues to play the role of a humanitarian corridor and remains one of the main trade, financial, cultural centres, as well as the largest logistics hub in the Black Sea basin. Today, 75% of Ukraine’s agricultural exports are shipped through the three Odesa ports, with another 12% coming from ports on the Danube River.
“The agricultural sector, water management and port operations are extremely important for the development of Ukraine’s economy. Before the war, agriculture accounted for the highest percentage of GDP – 10-14%. Now we have to do everything possible for the functioning of logistics and help attract investments from international partners in every possible way,” said Yuriy Maslov, Chairman of the Board of the Ukraine Rebuilding Alliance.
The central issues discussed at the forum included facilitating the work of the ports of Greater Odesa and the grain corridor, the problem of unrecognised Transnistria, global security and regional development, migration, environment, energy security and the impact of the upcoming US elections on advocacy for Ukraine.
The forum brought together distinguished guests from all over the world: leading politicians, security experts, journalists, international affairs researchers and diplomats. Among the attendees were US diplomat Kurt Volker, Moldovan Foreign Minister Mihai Popschiu, UN World Food Programme Director Cindy McCain, Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott and many others.
The BSSF was co-organised by Lord Michael Ashcroft, Oleksiy Honcharenko, Ivanna Klympush-Tsintsadze and Pavlo Unguryan, Board Member of the Ukraine Rebuilding Alliance.
The forum also featured the presentation of a new Ukrainian maritime drone, the Stalker 5.0. Its main purpose is to deliver water, food, military equipment, etc. to remote islands. It can also be used for reconnaissance and patrolling.
This forum underscores the importance of international cooperation and exchange of experience in addressing pressing issues of regional security and development. We continue to work on strengthening Ukraine’s position in the international arena, attracting investment and supporting our key economic sectors.
