site.btaOdesa Hosts Revival Economic Forum

An international Revival Economic Forum is taking place in Odesa on September 12 and 13, bringing together specialists, politicians, city mayors, diplomats, and business representatives from various countries. Speaking at the event's opening, Odesa Mayor Gennadiy Trukhanov said that the city is returning to its tradition of hosting economic forums.

Among the main goals, he highlighted Odesa's investment appeal despite the wartime conditions. Consolidating authorities, businesses, and international partners on a single platform is another important objective, Trukhanov said. He added that the city administration is showing its openness to dialogue, cooperation, and the implementation of joint business ideas to small, medium, and large businesses.

The Bulgarian Consul General in Odesa Svetoslav Ivanov, who attended the economic event along with accredited diplomatic representatives in Odesa, told BTA: "This forum is the most significant in Odesa during the war period, with many foreign representatives participating. Odesa is a European city and has signaled its desire to play a leading role in post-war economic recovery. Significant goals have been set, including economic and energy objectives, attracting investments, and port infrastructure. It was emphasized that Odesa's ports are Europe's gateway to the world."

The forums feature four panels, each focusing on connected topics: Ukraine to the World, The World to Ukraine, Economic Challenges During Wartime, Crisis Management and Investment Strategies in Uncertain Conditions, and Preservation of UNESCO's Cultural Heritage.

The 2001 official census reports that the Bulgarian community in Odesa Province comprises approximately 150,000 individuals. Of these, about 50,000 to 60,000 live in the city of Odesa. The largest concentrations of Bulgarians are in the Bolhrad, Izmail, and Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi districts.