Rinat Akhmetov Statement

Dear fellow Ukrainians,

The future of our country has been put under threat. The internal political tension threatens to escalate into a lengthy conflict and destroy the integrity of Ukraine.

The use of force and lawless actions from outside are unacceptable.

I believe that the crisis must only have a peaceful solution.

I call upon all fellow citizens to unite for the sake of the unity and integrity of Ukraine. Today this is the most important action. We must keep a cool head, not yield to provocations and make well-considered and balanced decisions.

The unity of society, business, and authorities is our strength.

Today the economy is a real political power. Our objective is to ensure the safety of people and their families and secure stable operations of companies in the country.

We will work 24/7 to sustain the operability of Ukraine’s infrastructure. This is our biggest contribution to the integrity of the country.

I call upon the politicians and the Ukrainian government to take every effort to secure the nation’s territorial sovereignty, restore democracy, and the unalienable rights and freedoms of citizens.

I call upon business circles in Ukraine and business partners of Ukrainian companies to join our efforts and work together to contribute to the peaceful settlement and to spare no material resource.

I believe that through our combined efforts we will champion our future – a strong, united and independent Ukraine.

I state with all due responsibility that SCM Group, which today employs 300,000 people and represents Ukraine from west to east and from north to south, will do everything possible to maintain the integrity of our country.

Rinat Akhmetov

President

System Capital Management