The city of Odesa and France have entered into a cooperation agreement in the healthcare sector. This agreement includes the establishment of a Mental Health Center based in one of Odesa's hospitals. 

Military actions have significantly affected many lives, especially veterans and displaced persons. It is crucial to provide access to quality psychological and psychiatric care for all city residents.

A working group is already operating in Odesa, assessing the condition of medical facilities. In the future, French doctors are expected to visit our hospitals to share their professional experience and practical skills. 

«Our goal is to work together with Expertise France to create conditions where everyone in need of help can receive it promptly and without barriers. Supporting mental health is not just about treating illnesses, but also about prevention, education, and combating stigma. We aim to build a healthy community where everyone feels secure,» stated Hennadiy Trukhanov. 

The Mayor of Odesa expressed gratitude to the French people and the Government of France for their attention to our city and invaluable support, as well as recognizing the personal contribution of the French Embassy in Ukraine towards developing cooperation and supporting municipal initiatives.

On behalf of the Odesa City Council, the Memorandum was signed by Mayor Hennadiy Trukhanov, while Ms. Sofia Oliinyk, Director of Expertise France in Ukraine, signed on behalf of France; Expertise France is a structural unit of the French Development Agency (AFD). 

Also present at the signing were the Deputy Minister of Health of Ukraine, Mr. Ihor Kopach, and the head of the French Development Agency (AFD) office in Ukraine, Ms. Axelle Noss. 

The Memorandum outlines a global cooperation framework in healthcare, specifically addressing issues related to mental health, rehabilitation, oncology, and cardiovascular diseases.