KYIV. March 24 (Interfax-Ukraine) – Fair and transparent privatization of state-run enterprises is the key factor for restoring the Ukrainian economy in 2016, EBRD Director for Ukraine Sevki Acuner has said.
“Unfortunately, I don’t see large foreign direct investment (FDI) to Ukraine in the near term, as well as the opportunities to increase spending on infrastructure. The only possible recovery factor for me is privatization,” he said at a business conference organized by UkrSibbank in Kyiv on Tuesday.
Acuner said that privatization should be open and fair.
EBRD is taking active part in the process as an advisor, he said. This helps to remove tycoons from the economy and create the competitive environment in the country.
He said that actions of Ukrainian politicians rather ineffective.
EBRD is not interested in politics, but in political stability, he said, adding that without political stability one unlikely would have a desire to invest.
He also welcomed the decision of Ukrainian authorities to partially sell shares in state-owned Oschadbank and Ukreximbank. He pointed out the importance of improving corporate management of banks before sale of shares.
EBRD is holding consultations for authorities on legislation that will bring banking operations in line with commercial principles. The bank would consider the possibility of buying shares in these banks, Acuner said.
