Without a major international presence, we cannot achieve progress in resolving the conflict - a meeting of Ivanna Klympush-Tsintsadze with the delegation of European People's Party

Vice Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic integration of Ukraine Ivanna Klympush-Tsintsadze met with members of the European People's Party (EPP). The focal points of the meeting were Ukraine-EU relations, the conflict in east of Ukraine and internal transformations within the country.

The Vice Prime Minister thanked the representatives of the EPP for solidarity and unwavering support for the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine. She also expressed the hope that the Dutch Senate will ratify the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the EU. This will provide an opportunity to fully take advantages of the Agreement which is currently operating under the temporary use.

Ivanna Klympush-Tsintsadze briefed interlocutors about the deterioration of security situation in the east of Ukraine due to Russian aggression. The other day in Krasnogorivka of Donetsk region as a result of attacks by militants two civilians were wounded and a school, a hospital, homes and the water supply system were damaged. Such actions of Russia demonstrate its unwillingness to implement the Minsk agreements. The Vice Prime Minister believes that this should be taken into account during international negotiations, as well as the fact that Ukraine while pursuing reforms is waging a grueling war with the aggressor. "Without a strong international presence, permanent monitoring of border by OSCE mission and withdrawal of troops and equipment by the enemy we will not be able to achieve progress in resolving the conflict," she stressed.

The conversation also involved the progress of Ukraine in the process of implementation of systemic reforms. The Vice Prime Minister presented to the representatives of EPP detailed reports concerning the implementation of the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the European Union in 2016 and informed about key achievements, particularly regarding the fight against corruption and judicial reform. The Vice Prime Minister highlighted the importance of implementing the Agreement, since internal reforms are a priority for Ukraine. She also expressed the hope that the progress will be achieved concerning the issue of expanding the autonomous trade preferences for our country. Deputy Secretary General of the European People’s Party Christian Kremer assured Ivanna Klympush-Tsintsadze of the unflagging support of the European aspirations of Ukraine. "In terms of introduction of the European values, you can always rely on our assistance and close cooperation", he stressed.