The ESBU and the U.S. Department of State Delegation Discussed Institutional Capacity Strengthening and Shared Priorities in Economic Security

 The leadership of the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine held a meeting with representatives of the U.S. Department of State, led by Deputy Assistant Secretary of State David Bedard.

The discussion focused on further strengthening the institutional capacity of the ESBU and expanding areas of international cooperation. First Deputy Director of ESBU Taras Shcherbai and Deputy Director Pavlo Buzdyhan presented the institution’s strategic development priorities. The conversation highlighted plans to enhance the Bureau’s analytical capabilities and develop more effective methods for investigating economic crimes. These efforts are aimed at reducing shadow schemes, lowering business-related risks, and ensuring a secure environment for investment.

The parties also discussed modernization of information and digital infrastructure and improving professional training for personnel.

The U.S. delegation noted the ESBU's progress in increasing institutional capacity and emphasized the importance of continued cooperation. The U.S. side reaffirmed its readiness to further support the Bureau’s initiatives, particularly in developing analytical tools, strengthening market transparency, and enhancing Ukraine’s economic security.

As a result of the meeting, the parties agreed to maintain regular dialogue and advance shared priorities — primarily in combating economic crime, reducing the shadow economy, and creating conditions for secure investment in Ukraine.

Participants from the U.S. side included:

David Bedard — Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) at the U.S. Department of State;

Anne Sanicki — Ukraine Team Lead for INL at the U.S. Department of State;

Richard Saunders — INL Director, US Embassy Kyiv;

James Chynoweth — INL Management Officer, US Embassy Kyiv;

Anna Yemelianova — INL Legal Specialist, US Embassy Kyiv.

The ESBU expresses its gratitude to the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Embassy for constructive cooperation, professional exchange, and long-term support of Ukraine’s institutional development.