Listen to this articleThe basics:
- NJEDA and Dnipropetrovsk sign first economic MOU
- Partnership aims to boost trade, innovation and R&D
- Focus on sectors including AI, life sciences, clean energy
- Agreement supports Ukraine‘s reconstruction amid war
Gov. Phil Murphy announced Oct. 25 that the New Jersey Economic Development Authority and the State of Dnipropetrovsk in Ukraine signed a Memorandum of Understanding.
The MOU aims to enhance economic collaboration and promote innovation. It also will contribute to Ukraine’s rebuilding efforts, as the country remains mired in a brutal war with Russia.
Murphy shared the announcement during the Ukraine Action Summit in Washington, D.C. It marks the first-ever economic agreement between New Jersey and Ukraine.
“We are excited to announce this historic partnership with the State of Dnipropetrovsk,” said Murphy. He emphasized the cultural and economic ties between New Jersey and Ukraine. “As the proud home to the second-largest Ukrainian diaspora in America, New Jersey and Ukraine deeply cherish the principles of democracy and self-determination.
“Today’s MoU will advance our shared goal of sustainable economic growth and encourage innovation across sectors including technology, life sciences, and education. We look forward to a productive and meaningful partnership that strengthens both of our regions.”
Gov. Phil Murphy announces MOU with Dnipropetrovsk:
Working together
The MOU is designed to connect the academic, research and business ecosystems of both regions. It also aims to open pathways for partnerships in sectors such as clean energy, artificial intelligence, aerospace and life sciences.
Through this agreement, the NJEDA and Dnipropetrovsk’s Foreign Economic Activity Department will coordinate projects that mutually benefit both economies while also supporting reconstruction in the Ukrainian region.
[The MOU] … lays the foundation for developing economic relations, advancing technology and innovation, and exchanging experience between our regions.
– Vladyslav Haivanenko, acting head, Dnipropetrovsk Regional State Administration
Vladyslav Haivanenko is acting head of the Dnipropetrovsk Regional State Administration. He noted how the Dnipro region continues to strengthen its international ties, as well as open a new chapter of transatlantic cooperation.
“The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Dnipropetrovsk Regional Military Administration and the State of New Jersey lays the foundation for developing economic relations, advancing technology and innovation, and exchanging experience between our regions,” said Haivanenko. “I sincerely thank Gov. Philip Murphy and Tim Sullivan … for their support of our country and for this historic step.”
Expanding opportunities
Sullivan highlighted how the partnership aligns with New Jersey’s global strategy to strengthen its innovation ecosystem and attract private investment.
“Under Gov. Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey has strengthened its international relationships to bolster the state’s economic competitiveness, create high-quality jobs, and leverage the expertise of entrepreneurs from around the world,” said Sullivan. “The NJEDA will work closely with the State of Dnipropetrovsk to build up critical industries, enhance research and development, and attract private investment to both States.”
“A new chapter in building strong regional economic ties begins with the signing of a partnership Memorandum of Understanding between the Dnipropetrovsk oblast and the State of New Jersey,” said Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States Olga Stefanishyna. “This milestone initiative marks a significant step toward expanding mutual economic opportunities and fostering closer connections between our peoples. The Dnipropetrovsk oblast, one of Ukraine’s key industrial and technological centers, continues to endure daily attacks from Russian forces.
“In this challenging context, the partnership represents an important avenue for resilience and shared prosperity.”
The full MOU is available here.
