The sides tackled mutual assistance in combating the spread of COVID-19 and strengthening trade and economic relations between Ukraine and the United States.

Thursday, August 27, Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal held a meeting with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun, who is paying an official visit to Ukraine.

The Prime Minister thanked the United States for its support in countering the spread of COVID-19 and emphasized the importance of joint and coordinated action by Ukraine and the United States in the face of the second wave threat.

"The coronavirus pandemic has become a challenge for the whole world. Ukraine managed to overcome panic in March and smoothly passed through the first wave of the coronavirus. We must halt new outbreaks and prevent a reboot of the health care system, " the Head of Government said.

Denys Shmyhal and Stephen Biegun touched upon the issue of trade and economic cooperation between Ukraine and the United States. The Head of the Ukrainian government stressed that the participation of American investors in the privatization of Ukrainian state-owned enterprises can help to strengthen bilateral relations.

"Privatization of unprofitable enterprises will give them a new impetus for development, create jobs and have a positive impact on the economy. The sale of the Dnipro Hotel was a signal to investors that Ukraine is committed to the principles of fair and transparent bidding. Therefore, we invite American investors to take part in the auctions as well," Denys Shmyhal underscored.

The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the United States for its consistent support of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, the provision of important military assistance, and the imposition of sanctions against the Russian Federation.

In turn, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun assured  Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal of the U.S. support for the Government in implementing reforms designed to strengthem democratic institutions and improve the business climate. Stephen Biegun added that the United States is committed to strengthening Ukraine's progress in its integration into the European Union and NATO.