Privatization Plan To Be Revised
“How big will be the changes in the six-year privatization plan?”
“I don’t think there will be any major changes. True, some program items are out of sync. The task force was set up to straighten things out, and that’s that.”
“What do you personally dislike about the program?”
“The list of individual enterprises to be put up for sale. It will be modified. I want to stress that initially the task force will not focus on changing privatization mechanisms.”
“You have been known to oppose screening potential buyers other than industrial investors. SPF, which drafted the program, does not want this principle changed. Are you prepared for a tradeoff?”
“I have my views on this issue. As I see it, the notion of an industrial investor narrows the scope of potential buyers. Currently, there are more important criteria for Ukraine than the industrial investor. We have to consider the budget. And we’ll do our best to at least secure the planned privatization receipts. It’s clear, however, that changing the whole program would stall the privatization process.”
“Obviously, you are not all that determined to eliminate the industrial investor notion.”
“The task force was set up for other purposes. Above all, we must coordinate issues relating to certain privatizable enterprises.”
“Would you specify?”
“It wouldn’t be expedient at this stage as options are still being discussed. Of course, we’ll let you know once there are results. Also, I wouldn’t rule out the possibility of adjustments in the privatization mechanism. After all, we want effective privatization, don’t we? It’s only natural that we should be interested in securing the highest proceeds from the planned sales of enterprises.”
“Aren’t you worried by the possibility of the privatization program debate not ending toward the end of December, thus putting its timely enactment at risk?”
“We will try to complete everything in good time. I think the program will be adopted during the next cabinet committee session.”
