From November 21 th till November 24th a Belgian economic mission led by Hіs Royal Hіghness Prіnce Phіlіppe of Belgіum visited Ukraine. The Mission was organized by the regional foreign trade institutions, such as Brussels Export – Іnvest іn Brussels, Flanders Іnvestment and Trade and the Wallonіa Foreіgn Trade and Іnvestment Agency. Over 160 businesspersons who represent 112 companies took part in the mission.

EUEA Members were participating in the Belgian-Ukrainian Business Forum opened by the Prime Minister of Ukraine Mykola Azarov and the Prince of Belgium Philippe as well as further round-tables and B2B meetings.

Speaking during the official opening of the Forum Mykola Azarov congratulated the participants on behalf of the Government of Ukraine. “We attach great importance to strengthening economic ties with your country. You came to Ukraine in a very interesting period when the country is updated, moves forward and that is why your participation in this process is extremely important for us”- the Prime Minister said.

Mykola Azarov informed the participants about the reforms carried out in Ukraine: “The country is developing. The administration is serious, and therefore no one should have no doubt that Ukraine will continue to stand in the way of reforms that are essential for our country. Meaning and objectives of the reforms are to create conditions for the modernization of the country for its renewal. The Government is decisive, because we understand that without upgrading and modernization Ukraine has no future.”

In turn, the Prince of Belgium Philippe said that cooperation with Ukraine has great potential: “We have a huge potential for further cooperation. Belgium is very interested in the potential of Ukraine’s industrial development, industrial traditions, big agricultural potential, and enthusiasm of Ukrainian business”- he said and added that Belgium is interested to invest in building, transport sectors, as well as developing cooperation in energy and in the preparation of objects to Euro 2012 in Ukraine.