Zelensky Met with the Leadership of Leading Defense Companies Worldwide.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky met with the leaders and top managers of the world's leading defense companies as part of the second International Defense Industries Forum (DFNC2). The meeting took place on October 2, 2024.

The event was attended by representatives of BAE Systems, KNDS, MBDA, D&M Holding Company, Amentum Services, Inc., AeroVironment, Inc., Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, Romarm, CZ Colt Group, Quantum Systems, Hellenic Defence Systems, and DI Danish Defence & Security Industries Association.

Zelensky thanked the countries that these manufacturers represent and the workers of the enterprises for supporting Ukrainians. He also acknowledged the companies that have already started working in Ukraine and opened their offices.

"We are counting on greater support because, unfortunately, the war has not stopped. And we are grateful for everything we can do together today and in the future. We are counting on our partnership not only during the war," emphasized the President.

The main topic of conversation was expanding cooperation to enhance the production capabilities of Ukraine's defense sector. Zelensky noted that the pace of domestic defense production has significantly increased since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion. However, for further growth, foreign experience, access to supply chains, and technologies are needed.

The President also noted that after the first defense industries forum, there are already important results. In particular, regarding the maintenance of light guns, the localization of assault rifle production, and the creation of capacities for manufacturing ammunition for small arms.

At the end of the meeting, Volodymyr Zelensky awarded representatives of foreign defense companies with state awards for their personal contribution to the development of Ukraine's defense industry and the creation of high-tech products under martial law conditions.

In his Telegram channel, the President wrote that the second International Defense Industries Forum brought together more than 30 countries, nearly 300 companies, and hundreds of participants.