The German Economic Team at Café Kyiv 2026: Intensifying German-Ukrainien business relations in focus
How can German-Ukrainian economic relations be strengthened under the current conditions? This was the topic of discussion on 23 February at the German Economic Team’s panel discussion ‘Strengthening German-Ukrainian business ties under challenging conditions’ at Café Kyiv. The panel was organised in cooperation with the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce, the German-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and the German Committee on Eastern European Economic Relations.
Private investment is one of the most important drivers of Ukraine’s economic development. That is why bilateral economic relations between Germany and Ukraine are crucial for the country’s reconstruction and recovery. Bilateral trade volume reached a record high of more than €12 billion in 2025, with Germany being one of the most important investment partners.
The panel participants agreed that stronger economic relations hold enormous potential for both the Ukrainian and German economies. Many companies are already operating extremely successfully in Ukraine – despite the adverse conditions – and are thus sending a clear signal to the German economy. The panellists also discussed the challenges and possible instruments for expanding cooperation.
We would like to thank the panellists for their participation and lively exchange:
- Moderator: Stefan Kägebein, Head of Ukraine Task Force, German Chamber of Industry and Commerce
- Gerlind Heckmann, Head of Division for Foreign Trade Promotion and Financing; Ukraine – Eastern Europe, Caucasus, Central Asia, Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy
- Alena Akulich, Regional Director at the German Committee on Eastern European Economic Relations
- Oliver Gierlichs, President of the German-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce
- Robert Kirchner, Deputy Team Leader, German Economic Team
