On July 23, 2025, Odesa's Deputy Mayor Pavlo Vugelman held a final working meeting with representatives of the French delegation, including the team from Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and technical consultants.

The French delegation included the head of AFD's Ukrainian office, Ms. Axelle Nos, along with Yara El Eleywa Le Corff, Hanna Niemtsova, Elsa Negre, Marge Barradas Machin, and Mathieu Radoube.

During the meeting, the parties discussed the key stages of implementing a joint project to transform the city’s medical infrastructure. The French side presented a consolidated vision for the initiative, including a detailed funding allocation for each medical institution (hospitals No. 1, 5, 10, and 11) and outlined the next steps and timelines for project approval.

Pavlo Vugelman emphasized the relevance of this project for the city, as it concerns not only the renewal of hospitals but also a comprehensive modernization of medical facilities in line with European standards.

«This project is crucial for Odesa. We are not just talking about upgrading infrastructure or purchasing modern equipment; it is about a deep, systemic transformation of the city's medical institutions according to the best European standards. We aim to create an accessible, high-quality, and effective healthcare system that meets the modern challenges and expectations of our citizens. Therefore, cooperation with reliable partners like AFD and Expertise France is extremely valuable and strategic for us,» emphasized the Deputy Mayor.

Ms. Axelle Nos, in turn, confirmed the strategic importance of this project for both AFD and the French Republic. She noted that the initiative has received support at the level of the European Commission, opening opportunities for attracting grant funding that will significantly ease the burden on the city budget.

«There is still much technical and coordination work ahead, but we are confident that full implementation will begin in early 2026,» stated Ms. Nos.

The Odesa City Council expresses gratitude to the French partners for their consistent support, constructive dialogue, and shared vision for the future systemic development of the city's medical sector.