About 8 million Ukrainians are currently living abroad, creating a growing challenge for Ukraine’s security and future development, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said on Friday, May 29. Speaking in the Ukrainian parliament, Sybiha said the government is preparing measures to encourage Ukrainians to return home and described the issue as a strategic priority.JOIN US ON TELEGRAMFollow our coverage of the war on the @Kyivpost_official. “For us, this is truly becoming a security challenge,” Sybiha said. “We openly say that the necessary measures and steps will be developed to stimulate or create proper conditions for Ukrainians to return home. This is our main strategic goal.” Sybiha said any large-scale return hinges upon security in Ukraine. “Conditions must be created first and foremost in terms of security at home. This is also a fact, this is also the reality,” he said. Ukraine may have to compete for returning citizens Sybiha said Kyiv is discussing the issues with allies, but added that some countries hosting Ukrainian refugees might not want them to return. He said Ukrainians have made significant contributions to local economies and labor markets, making them valuable to host countries. “Not all countries are interested in Ukrainians returning because of their contribution to economic development, their level of qualification and their adaptability,” Sybiha said. “Therefore, we will actually have to fight for our people so that they return,” he added.