On Wednesday, January 10, Head of ARMA Olena Duma held an online meeting with the Director of the Asset Recovery Bureau of the Republic of Malta (ARB) Anthony Sevasta.
The Head of the National Agency informed the colleague about the main aspects of ARMA's work, the Agency's priorities and achievements, and the prospective areas of activity in 2024.
Olena Duma emphasised that all the focus of the Ukrainian state authorities is on protecting the independence and territorial integrity of the state and preparing for a fruitful negotiation process with the EU for Ukraine's full membership. The Head of the ARMA highlighted that the institution makes a significant contribution to the country's budget and strengthens its defense capabilities through the purchase of War Bonds (worth UAH 3.7 billion by the end of 2023).
The Head of the National Agency invited Anthony Sevasta to visit Ukraine to intensify bilateral cooperation in the field of asset tracing and sale, also suggested considering signing a Memorandum on Cooperation. Such a document will create the basis for further bilateral initiatives.
In turn, the Head of the Bureau informed about the organizational structure and priority areas of activity of the Bureau and noted that ARMA and the ARB share many common features, especially in terms of the functionality of the two institutions. The Maltese colleague welcomed the initiative to conclude a Memorandum on Cooperation and stressed that the document could become the basis for fruitful cooperation, facilitate effective exchange of experience, improve the level of professional qualifications of employees and further develop relations between the two authorities.
Grigol Katamadze, Deputy Head of ARMA for European Integration, outlined the importance of sharing experience in the sale of seized assets, including abroad. This experience will be taken into account by the National Agency when selling the first asset in foreign jurisdiction.
In conclusion, the Head of ARMA expressed her gratitude to the Government and people of Malta for their support of Ukraine in countering russian aggression.
