By Jack Laurenson

KYIV – The “New Ukraine” International Investment Conference opened in Kyiv this week, bringing officials and executives together in Ukraine's capital to lay the groundwork for further foreign investment into the country's recovering economy.

Government officials and experts here say that foreign investment is a vital component of Ukraine's continued economic growth.

In 2017, Ukraine attracted $1.63 billion in foreign direct investment, or FDI.

According to UkraineInvest – the country's official office of investment promotion – it's an increase of 20% compared to 2016.

For 2018, investment experts close to the Prime Minister are tasked with courting the United Kingdom, France and Germany for more FDI. Those three European countries are seen as the priority for this year.

In Kyiv this week, large corporations and prospective investors from Western Europe, the USA, Canada and Israel have arrived at the forum, taking place from May 15-17. Delegates and executives from Asia, Central and Eastern Europe are also here.

Within the framework of the conference, panel discussions and strategy meetings will allow Ukrainian enterprises and foreign stakeholders to connect, network and form ties in an effort boost investment and drive their businesses forward.

The conference covers investment opportunities for all of Ukraine's major economic bases: agriculture, information technology, energy, defense and aerospace.

The forum is the sixth of its kind. Started by Empire State Capital Partners in 2014, the event has taken place in Kyiv three times and once each in Odesa and Tel Aviv.

Organizers say the investment forum has attracted over 2,000 participants from 30 different countries over the years, reflecting a growing and strengthening interest in investing in Ukraine.

For comments or story ideas please contact the author of this report, UBJ Managing Editor Jack Laurenson, at: laurenson.jack@theubj.com.

Posted May 16, 2018.