Odessa and France have entered into a cooperation agreement in the healthcare sector. A significant aspect of this partnership is the establishment of a Mental Health Center within a local clinical hospital.

The ongoing military actions have affected numerous individuals, especially veterans and displaced persons. It is crucial to ensure access to quality psychological care for the residents of Odessa.

A working group is currently evaluating the technical condition and infrastructure of medical facilities in the city. French doctors are expected to visit Odessa hospitals in the future to share their professional experiences and skills.

«Our goal is to create conditions where everyone who needs help can receive it promptly and without barriers. Supporting mental health is not just about treating illnesses, but also about prevention, education, and combating stigma. We aim to build a healthy community where everyone feels secure,» said Gennady Trukhanov.

The Mayor of Odessa expressed gratitude to the French people and the Government of France for their assistance and highlighted the vital contribution of the French Embassy in Ukraine towards enhancing cooperation and supporting local initiatives.

The memorandum was signed by Odessa's Mayor Gennady Trukhanov and Ms. Sofia Oliinyk, director of Expertise France in Ukraine, which is a part of the French Development Agency.

Also present at the signing were the Deputy Minister of Health of Ukraine, Mr. Igor Kopach, and the head of the French Development Agency office in Ukraine, Ms. Axel Nos.

The memorandum outlines a framework for global cooperation in healthcare, addressing issues related to mental health, rehabilitation, oncology, and cardiovascular diseases.