The G7 Summit in Japan on 26 and 27 May 2016: the European Union’s role and actions

… During the G7 summit, members will exchange views and seek common ground on the most pressing foreign policy challenges, including Ukraine/Russia, the situation in Syria, Iran and Libya. Also the security situation with regard to North Korea and the East and South China Seas will be addressed.

The EU’s support to Ukraine – The EU remains a key actor in the ongoing process to bring a solution to the crisis in Ukraine that respects its territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence, as well as international law.

The European Commission continues its support for the government of Ukraine’s plans for reforms across a broad range of sectors. Faced with economic recession and the ongoing instability in the east of the country, Ukraine last year requested additional financial assistance from the EU and its other partners. The programme proposed, worth €1.8 billion, follows the €1.6 billion that we already delivered in 2014/2015 and is part of an unprecedented package of support. The EU-Ukraine Association Agreement, already approved by 27 EU Member States and the European Parliament, including its Deep and Comprehensive Free-Trade Area, remains provisionally applied, giving both the EU and Ukraine new opportunities for business and trade.

In April, the European Commission proposed to lift visa requirements for Ukrainian citizens for short-stay travel to the Schengen area. This will facilitate mobility, but also encourage trade and cooperation and build trust and understanding. The fight against corruption has been an essential condition for visa liberalisation, and it remains an urgent priority for the country as a whole. The independence, integrity and operational capacity of new public institutions will be crucial. Ukraine's political leaders have a responsibility to work together and seek unity by putting their country's future first.

In relation to the situation in eastern Ukraine, the EU remains committed to a complete implementation of the Minsk Agreements, starting with a full and proper ceasefire. The EU stands strong and united against aggression and destabilisation, but also believes in the virtues of dialogue and diplomacy.

European Commission

See more: http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_MEMO-16-1861_en.htm