Ukrainian parliament ratifies natural resources deal with U.S.

KIEV, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The Ukrainian parliament on Thursday ratified a natural resources deal with the United States, which would establish a joint investment fund for Ukraine's reconstruction.

The motion was passed with 338 votes in favor, exceeding the required minimum of 226, the Ukrinform news agency reported.

Earlier in the day, First Deputy Prime Minister and Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko said Kiev hopes the fund will be fully operational within a few weeks.

Last week, Svyrydenko and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent signed an agreement in Washington to establish the fund, which will be partially financed by new royalties on Ukraine's mineral resources, gas and oil.

According to Svyrydenko, both countries will co-manage and co-finance the fund, while Ukraine would maintain ownership and complete control over its mineral and energy resources. Enditem