On Wednesday, June 15, Prime Minister of Ukraine Volodymyr Groysman met with senators of the Democratic Party of the United States Richard Durbin, Ben Cardin, Tim Kane and Elizabeth Warren in the framework of the visit to the United States.

Volodymyr Groysman noted that the working visit to the United States was his first international visit. "I came to the United States to show my respect," he pointed out and thanked the interlocutors for their support and interest in Ukraine, particularly in this difficult time.

The Prime Minister stressed the willingness of the Government to carry out reforms in Ukraine and cooperate with the International Monetary Fund. He described the main priorities of the Government, including macroeconomic stability, the struggle against corruption, creation of a favorable business climate and ensuring national security.

The Prime Minister said that the Government continues deregulation, decentralization, and also began preparing for the privatization of state-owned enterprises. According to him, there are 3,500 state-owned enterprises in Ukraine that is about 15 times more than Ukraine needs.

Also the agenda involves reform of the energy sector, Ukrainian customs, as well as judicial reform. Since May 1, civil service reform was launched. "Our goal is to transform the public service into a professionalized service," Volodymyr Groysman highlighted.

The Head of Government believes Ukraine has a great potential for development. That is why, according to him, the task of the Government is to eliminate the imbalance between the low standard of living of people and the capability of the country. "We have to create such conditions so that the living conditions reach the potential that we possess," he stressed.

The parties discussed the issue of the Russian aggression, sanctions against the Russian Federation, as well as prospects of cooperation between Ukraine and NATO. Volodymyr Groysman informed the interlocutors that shelling of Ukrainian servicemen in Donbas continues. He emphasized that sanctions against Russia should be prolonged until the end of the Russian military aggression and the observance of international law. The Prime Minister also paid attention to the threats that emerged due to the Russian occupation of Crimea.

The Prime Minister stressed the importance of maintaining weapons and modernization of the Ukrainian army in order to strengthen its defense capability.

In turn, the senators stressed the clear position of the United States concerning the inadmissibility of the Russian aggression.

The representatives of the U.S. Democratic Party also welcomed the start of the judicial reform in Ukraine.