The Ministry for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine hosted a working meeting with representatives of the World Bank to foster cooperation in preparing key infrastructure projects through the Project Preparation Facility (PPF) implemented under the PREPARE project.

The focus is on systematic support at the project preparation stage — from the elaboration of technical documentation to strategic analysis of alternatives and conducting environmental and social assessments.

Priority — strategic transport corridors

One of the central topics of discussion was the development of the M-15 Odesa – Reni (toward Bucharest) transport corridor, which is over 300 km long.

This route holds strategic importance for exporting Ukrainian products via the Danube ports, ensuring logistical resilience, and integrating Ukraine into the EU transport network. The participants emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to modernizing national logistical routes.

Strengthening institutional capacity

Special attention was given to building the capacity of the Agency for Restoration as the initiator of major infrastructure projects.

The PPF involves engaging international expert support to structure complex projects in line with the best global standards. This is intended to mitigate risks during the implementation phase and create the conditions for attracting further financing.

The parties also talked about expanding the project portfolio in the transport and energy sectors, taking into account Ukraine’s European integration.

ICEG’s position: quality preparation is the foundation of effective reconstruction

ICEG stresses that successful reconstruction begins not at the construction site, but with high-quality project preparation.

Attracting international financial instruments requires:

• professional preparation of technical documentation;
• analysis of strategic alternatives;
• risk assessment;
• structured contract model;
• proper management of timelines and budgets.

It is at the preparation stage that the viability of an infrastructure solution is determined. Consulting engineering support of projects on the basis of agreements with clients is a key tool for ensuring transparency, compliance with international standards, and minimization of implementation risks.

Strengthening the cooperation with the World Bank in the area of project preparation indicates a shift toward a more structured reconstruction model, where the quality of planning and management becomes the decisive factor in the investment efficacy.