Ukraine and Netherlands plan to expand cooperation between Odesa and Rotterdam ports

Ukraine and the Netherlands have discussed further cooperation between the ports of Odesa and Rotterdam to support international logistics routes amid ongoing Russian attacks on Ukrainian port infrastructure. The issue was raised during a meeting with Roelof van Ees, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Ukraine. The parties also discussed the restoration of Ukrainian infrastructure and measures to ensure the stable operation of the transport sector.

Strengthening the partnership between the ports of Odesa and Rotterdam is seen as one of the ways to improve the resilience of Ukraine’s transport system. Amid ongoing threats to port infrastructure, such cooperation is important for maintaining international logistics routes and ensuring the continuity of freight transportation. The Ukrainian side also invited the Netherlands to join the Ukraine Transport Support Fund.

An important outcome of the meeting was the confirmation that the Dutch Ukraine Partnership Facility (UPF) program will continue in 2027, with a planned budget of €26.5 mln. The parties agreed to explore opportunities to attract this funding for joint Ukrainian-Dutch infrastructure recovery and development projects. However, specific funding allocations for individual transport and port projects have not yet been determined.

In addition to port logistics, the negotiations covered other areas of infrastructure cooperation. Key priorities include ensuring uninterrupted water and heating supplies, strengthening the energy independence of local communities, and involving Dutch manufacturers in temporary bridge construction projects. Particular attention was also paid to Kyiv’s needs for pumping equipment, generators, and energy storage systems.

Further cooperation between Ukraine and the Netherlands will focus not only on restoring damaged infrastructure facilities but also on improving their resilience to security threats. For the transport sector, expanding international partnerships, attracting financing, and implementing joint projects will be particularly important for maintaining the stable operation of Ukraine’s logistics routes.

Tags: Ukraine, Netherlands, Odesa port, Роттердам