Statement by High Representative/Vice-President Federica Mogherini and Commissioner Johannes Hahn on the appointment of Prime Minister Groysman and the new government in Ukraine

April 15, 2016.

    Today’s appointment of a new government in Ukraine, headed by Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman, is a crucial development at a time when new momentum in the country is badly needed. Having met Mr Groysman in his previous capacity as the Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada many times, including very recently, we look forward to working with him to build a stronger Ukraine, on the basis of fundamental reform and accountable governance.
    Substantial efforts to implement reforms have been made in Ukraine since 2014. The momentum offered with the appointment of the new Prime Minister and government must be seized now, first and foremost to renew trust and ownership of Ukraine’s citizens.
    The European Union remains committed to supporting Ukraine politically and through financial and technical assistance in its efforts to implement key reforms, modernise the country and fight corruption. In this context, we will support the new government to ensure that key political and economic institutions function efficiently and transparently, and that the rule of law is strengthened. In this regard, prosecution structures genuinely committed to vigorous reform will be of utmost importance.
    We trust that the appointment of the new government will also provide new momentum to the implementation of the Minsk agreements and we call on all parties to follow through on their commitments