Minister of Strategic Industries of Ukraine, Olexander Kamyshin, spoke at the Ukraine-EU Defense Industries Forum held on May 6th in Brussels. Here's the text of his speech:
"Dear ladies and gentlemen, esteemed representatives, ambassadors, ministers, industry delegates. First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude to each and every one of you, to your countries — to all who have stood with us for 803 days already. Without you, we would have never been able to endure for so long. Thank you.
I am pleased to meet with you at this historic event — the first Ukraine-EU Defense Industries Forum, which is also the third multinational international forum on defense industries co-organized by Ukraine.
Two months ago, the European Commission presented the first-ever European Defense Industrial Strategy. The strategy not only emphasizes that closer cooperation between Ukraine's defense industry and the EU will be part of the EU's security obligations to Ukraine, but also recognizes the Ukrainian industry as an important component of the pan-European industry. This recognition is extremely significant.
This means that Ukraine's future is linked to the European Union. By developing the Ukrainian defense industry, we strengthen our joint capabilities. Strengthening Ukraine's defense industry means strengthening the defense of the entire Europe.
Ukraine is fighting for its freedom and independence, resisting Russia's unprovoked aggression. This aggression is an attack not only on Ukraine but on the entire free world, founded on the principles of order, democracy, and human rights, especially in Europe. The EU and its member states, along with the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Norway, and other allies, stand together with Ukraine against this brutal aggression.
Ukraine is immensely grateful for all the support provided by the EU and its member states. But over the past year, we have also significantly strengthened our own capabilities — and we aim to continue developing them in cooperation with our allies.
The war against Russia, like other global conflicts, shows that no country can have sufficient defense-industrial potential to meet all its needs independently in such situations. Collective security is crucial for the ability of any free nation to defend its freedom and independence.
Next month, Switzerland will host the Global Peace Summit, where the Ukrainian Peace Formula will be discussed. The main goal of this formula is to unite the global community to force Russia into peace and ensure a fair end to the war in Ukraine.
This initiative is of crucial importance not only for Ukrainians but for the whole world — as a precedent. We are accustomed to perceiving peace as a given, as a constant, but the reality is different — we see armed conflicts erupting around the world.
We must actively strive for a peaceful life. The Ukrainian Peace Formula aims to unite all countries against war, to create an effective mechanism to counter any acts of military aggression in the future.
A strong and united defense industry is a vital element of this mechanism. Not only Russia but also other aggressor countries must understand that their actions will not go unpunished. That's why freedom must be armed better than tyranny.
We see ourselves as members of the European family. Starting the EU accession process, we consider our defense industry an integral part of the EU defense-industrial base, contributing to the collective security of EU member states.
Ukrainian defense industry has much to offer European partners. We are proud of our powerful industrial base with 500 companies employing 300,000 people, demonstrating remarkable resilience in the face of aggression.
Today, representatives of 38 companies from Ukraine are present here. Including the CEO of Ukroboronprom, who oversees approximately 70 plants, representatives of private defense industry associations, and other companies from Ukraine.
Addressing European defense industry companies, I urge you to engage more with Ukrainian companies. See what they produce, explain to them how it works in your countries, and find what you can do together.
To Ukrainian companies, I say, do not hesitate. Engage with your European colleagues. Show what you do in Ukraine. Find ways to do it together. I am convinced that such cooperation will strengthen both sides.
The Ukrainian defense industry is growing rapidly. Last year, arms and military equipment production tripled. This year, twice as many contracts have already been concluded compared to the previous year. But with your support, we can achieve even more.
The gap between the capabilities of our defense industry and the funds available for procurement amounts to $10 billion this year alone. We invite our partner countries to help bridge this gap by concluding direct contracts with Ukrainian companies. This support is crucial for both the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the Ukrainian economy.
We have named this initiative "ZBROYARI: Manufacturing Freedom." It is a global fundraising project, and we call on all our partner countries to support the Ukrainian defense industry right now, not only through long-term partnership programs but also through urgent decisions, such as direct contracts for the production of more weapons.
Two weeks ago, Denmark became the first country to join the "ZBROYARI: Manufacturing Freedom" initiative. Denmark will procure weapons for the Ukrainian defense forces from Ukrainian manufacturers — and we are immensely grateful to the Danish people for this support.
Stay strong, stay united — and support Ukrainian arms manufacturers. Let's build the Arsenal of the Free World together. Thank you. Glory to Ukraine!"
