EU advises Ukraine to keep balance between speed and efficiency of reforms

The EU welcomes democratic development in Ukraine but advises the country to keep the balance between the speed and efficiency of reforms, according to a statement posted on the website of the European External Action Service (EEAS) following the 5th meeting of the EU-Ukraine Association Committee in Brussels on November 5.
"The EU welcomed the renewed and ambitious drive for reforms, which reflects the expectations of the Ukrainian citizens, notably in the areas of the rule of law and the fight against corruption, as well as economic issues, which directly impact daily life in Ukraine. The EU acknowledged the expectation to achieve swift results, but recalled that speed and efficiency should go hand in hand with an inclusive legislative process," the statement reads.

The EU emphasized that the meeting allowed the EU and Ukraine to take stock of the implementation of the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement and to prepare for the Association Council, which should take place in the coming months.

The statement also notes that this was the first Association Committee since Ukraine's presidential and parliamentary elections earlier this year and was an opportunity for an exchange of views with representatives of Ukraine's new government.

The delegations were led by Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba and EEAS Deputy Managing Director for Europe and Central Asia Luc Devigne.

"The EU commended significant progress made in recent months in numerous areas. It highlighted, in particular, the importance of progress in the reform of the judiciary, including prosecution and the Security Service. Actions to improve the investment climate were discussed, as well as efforts to speed up progress where necessary. The Association Agreement, including its Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area, constitutes a roadmap for reforms, continuing Ukraine's political association and economic integration with the EU," the document reads.

The EU recalled also the important role that a vibrant civil society plays in Ukraine. The EU reaffirmed its continued support for Ukraine's reform efforts, including through technical and financial assistance.

"The EU's assistance package is unprecedented for any third country (EUR 15 billion since 2014) and is linked to continuing reforms in key areas such as decentralization and Public Administration Reform," the statement reads.

The EU also used this occasion to reaffirm the support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, within its internationally recognized borders.

"The EU continues to condemn the illegal annexation of Crimea and Sevastopol by Russia and remains committed to its non-recognition policy, including through restrictive measures. The EU welcomed the enhanced engagement with eastern Ukraine. The EU welcomed Ukraine's unwavering support for a sustainable and peaceful resolution of the conflict in eastern Ukraine and efforts it has taken towards the full implementation of the Minsk Agreements, and called on Russia and the armed formations it backs to act likewise," the document reads.