Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with some of the most influential figures in the US business world on Wednesday night to discuss ways to rebuild his country’s economy and infrastructure amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. The meeting, which was held in Manhattan and organized by JPMorgan Chase, included former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, billionaire Mike Bloomberg, New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, hedge fund billionaire Bill Ackman, former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger and billionaire Barry Sternlicht.
Zelensky appeals for investment and cooperation
Zelensky, who is scheduled to visit the White House on Thursday for a meeting with US President Joe Biden, used the opportunity to appeal for investment and cooperation from the American business leaders. He highlighted the potential of Ukraine’s young and educated population, its rich natural resources and its strategic location as a gateway to Europe. He also emphasized the need for support from the international community to counter the threat posed by Russia, which annexed Crimea in 2014 and continues to back separatist rebels in eastern Ukraine.
Zelensky said that Ukraine is committed to implementing reforms and fighting corruption to create a favorable business environment and attract foreign capital. He also expressed his gratitude for the assistance that the US has provided to Ukraine, both in terms of financial aid and military equipment. He said that he hopes to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries and expand cooperation in various sectors, such as energy, technology, agriculture and defense.
Wall Street shows interest and optimism
The Wall Street CEOs and business power players who attended the meeting showed interest and optimism about Ukraine’s prospects and challenges. They praised Zelensky’s leadership and vision, and expressed their willingness to explore opportunities for collaboration and investment in Ukraine. They also shared their insights and advice on how to overcome the obstacles and risks that Ukraine faces, such as geopolitical instability, security threats, regulatory hurdles and social issues.
Some of the participants also announced concrete initiatives or plans to support Ukraine’s development. For example, Eric Schmidt said that he will launch a program to train Ukrainian IT specialists and entrepreneurs, while Mike Bloomberg said that he will help Ukraine improve its public health system and combat climate change. Robert Kraft said that he will donate sports equipment and organize sports events for Ukrainian children, while Bill Ackman said that he will invest in Ukrainian startups and infrastructure projects.
A productive and positive meeting
The meeting, which lasted longer than expected, was described as productive and positive by both sides. The participants agreed to maintain regular communication and follow up on their proposals and commitments. They also expressed their hope that the meeting will serve as a catalyst for further dialogue and cooperation between the US and Ukrainian business communities.
The meeting was also seen as a sign of confidence and support for Zelensky ahead of his meeting with Biden, which is expected to focus on security, energy and democracy issues. Zelensky has been seeking a clear US commitment to defend Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as more assistance to modernize its military and economy. He has also been pushing for a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war in eastern Ukraine, which has claimed more than 13,000 lives since 2014.
