KYIV. June 4 (Interfax-Ukraine) – Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has said Ukraine should continue the privatization of state enterprises.
“Of course, I support the thorough control of the parliament over privatization. The more transparent it will be, the better it is. I also support the idea that you, dear lawmakers, will set the rules of privatization and a list of facilities under a proposal of the government. We have over 1,800 enterprises. We have no more than 200 [enterprises that are] vitally important for the state. Of course, we would not sell Ukrzaliznytsia or defense enterprises, but who can explain me why the state needs stud farms which are also on the list of companies that are not subject to privatization?” he said while addressing the parliament in his annual speech on Thursday.
“Finally, the major part of the enterprises put on the list of companies that are not subject to privatization has not received any kopeck of investment during two years and they are doomed to failure in a competitive fight,” he said.
Poroshenko said that equipment and technologies at the enterprises are at the level of the 1930s.
“They would not survive if they do not receive effective direct investment and effective management both from domestic and western investors,” he added.
