Edward Mermelstein to Join Global Leaders at the 11th Kyiv International Economic Forum

On October 16, Kyiv will host the 11th Kyiv International Economic Forum (KIEF), themed “Ukraine 2.0: The Power of People.” I’m honored to join leaders from government, business, and international institutions to explore how Ukraine can rebuild with resilience, drive innovation, and reimagine its role in the global economy.

At a moment when Ukraine faces both extraordinary challenges and unprecedented potential, KIEF represents more than dialogue, it is a platform for action. The conversations this year center on how to attract investment, rebuild industry, strengthen energy resilience, and integrate into global markets amid profound transformation.

My contribution will focus on the intersection of diplomacy and economic development, emphasizing how international partnerships and city-level collaboration can accelerate recovery. Ukraine’s path forward depends not only on reconstruction, but on trust, trust between sectors, nations, and the people who continue to believe in the country’s future.

The power of Ukraine lies in its human capital: those who defend, rebuild, teach, and innovate. As KIEF highlights, rebuilding is not only about infrastructure, but about people, visionaries who choose progress even in times of adversity.

I look forward to joining my colleagues in Kyiv and contributing to this vital global conversation on how partnership and innovation can define the next chapter of Ukraine’s story.