The Mayor of Odessa, Gennady Trukhanov, met with representatives of Agence Française de Développement (AFD), led by CEO Mr. Rémi Riou, who has been at the helm since 2016.
During the ongoing war, AFD has intensified its activities in Ukraine, opening a new office in Kyiv in 2024. Mr. Riou emphasized that direct interaction with municipalities is a priority for the Agency. The collaboration with the Odessa City Council began last fall, and by February 2025, a Memorandum of Cooperation in healthcare was signed, along with a Technical Support Agreement with City Hospital No. 1.
According to the agreement, a Mental Health Center will be established and equipped. The tender procedures have been completed, and documents have been sent for approval to the French side.
As noted by Mr. Riou, prior to the meeting at the city hall, he visited several medical facilities in Odessa and planned visits to other hospitals. The AFD group is also interested in collaborating with the private sector. They traditionally implement projects aimed at stability and development, combating poverty, and ensuring equality. The Agency has already invested about 500 million euros in Ukraine and plans to increase its investment volume.
"France's support and your presence in Ukraine give hope to millions of citizens that we have a European future, and it is already taking shape. These are not just investments; they also provide moral support to Ukrainians, instilling confidence and providing strength to continue the struggle," expressed gratitude the Mayor of Odessa, Gennady Trukhanov.
During the meeting, other social projects were discussed, including attracting foreign capital for housing construction for internally displaced persons and developing transportation infrastructure.
As a token of appreciation, Gennady Trukhanov presented Mr. Rémi Riou with a statue of the Duke, expressing hope for the historical significance of this meeting:
"We continue the work initiated by the first mayor of the city, the French Duke de Richelieu."
