Czech Republic is ready to support the hydropower sector of Ukraine
Ukrhydroenergo was visited by Václav Bartuska, Energy Security Representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, Radek Matula, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Czech Republic to Ukraine, and Ivan Galat, Trade Counselor of the Czech Embassy in Ukraine.
During the meeting, Ukrhydroenergo employees showed the delegation the conditions in which Kyiv HPP is currently operating and described the role of hydropower in ensuring the reliable operation of Ukraine's energy system. The parties discussed the current state of Ukraine's energy security in the wake of Russia's ongoing aggression and the possibility of further cooperation between the Czech Republic and Ukraine. In particular, they were restoring the damaged hydroelectric power plants of Ukrhydroenergo and rebuilding the Kakhovka HPP destroyed by the Russian occupiers. The Czech side reaffirmed its readiness to help in the emergency mode and expressed interest in long-term cooperation and investment in Ukraine's energy sector, mainly hydropower.
"We have always supported Ukrainians, and we will continue to help as long as it is needed. Although military operations seem to have suspended our economic and investment cooperation due to high risks, Czech companies that operated in Ukraine before the war remain here today. We believe there will soon be peace in Ukraine, but no doubt on your terms," Radek Matula emphasized.
Vaclav Bartuska, the representative for energy security at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, emphasized the readiness to continue supporting the restoration of Ukraine's energy facilities.
In turn, Bohdan Sukhetskyi, Deputy CEO of Ukrhydroenergo, thanked the Czech delegation for their support and noted that in the future, the Czech Republic and Ukraine will have many joint projects, including in the energy sector.
"Since last fall, more than 45 missile strikes have hit our energy facilities. But the most significant and most painful blow was inflicted by the Russians, who blew up the Kakhovka hydroelectric power plant. We will be able to assess the full extent of the destruction after the territories are de-occupied and demined. However, after all the necessary examinations, we will rebuild everything. Despite all the difficulties, we continue to work and gradually restore the lost capacity. We thank everyone, including the Czech Republic, for their support and assistance. We appreciate it. I believe that after the Victory, we will have many vectors to deepen cooperation and exchange experience," said Bohdan Sukhetskyi.
