In a significant address at the Ukraine–Japan Forum in Tokyo, First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska, emphasized the critical role of human capital restoration in her country’s post-war recovery efforts. The forum, aimed at advancing Ukraine’s economic rebuilding, saw participation from government officials, business leaders, and international organizations. Leading the Ukrainian delegation was Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration, Taras Kachka.

Zelenska underscored the importance of prioritizing the human element in reconstruction efforts. “Rebuilding homes and businesses is necessary, but it is not enough. They serve no purpose if there are no people living in them or working there,” she stated, reflecting the sentiment that restoring human capital is a cornerstone of national recovery.

The First Lady detailed various initiatives under her leadership, including a comprehensive school nutrition reform that has established 1,000 modern school kitchens and trained 6,500 cooks, ensuring primary school students receive free daily lunches. She highlighted the initiative’s broader impact on providing a sense of care and safety to children and their families.

Furthermore, Olena Zelenska shared the progress of the Olena Zelenska Foundation’s projects, which focus on creating supportive environments for Ukrainian children. These initiatives include restoring school shelters, establishing educational spaces in hospitals, and building homes for foster families. “Our goal is to ensure quality, safety, and care for all Ukrainians, not ‘someday,’ but right now,” she affirmed.

Zelenska concluded by extending gratitude to Japan for its considerable financial, humanitarian, and technical support to Ukraine, reinforcing the vital international partnerships aiding in the nation’s path to recovery.