President of the European Commission Visits Ukraine, Emphasizes Ongoing Reforms
Date: 2023-11-04 Author: Dima Zakharov Categories: POLICY
During her unannounced visit to Ukraine, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen commended Ukraine's significant achievements in implementing reforms, even amid the ongoing war. She praised the country for its efforts in fighting corruption, passing lobbying legislation, strengthening income declaration procedures, and addressing recommendations from the Venice Commission concerning national minorities, including in the field of education.
Von der Leyen highlighted Ukraine's remarkable response to the ambitious seven recommendations presented by the European Commission last year when Ukraine was designated as a candidate for EU membership. The country's democratic institutions mobilized to fulfill the will of the Ukrainian people. Notable progress was made in reforming constitutional justice, the election of the High Council of Justice, and the adoption of an Anti-Corruption Program. Significant strides were also taken in combating money laundering and limiting the influence of oligarchs in public life. This includes a new media law and the resolution of issues related to the rights of national minorities.
As President Zelensky stated, Ukraine did not seek concessions or shortcuts but instead demonstrated that Ukrainian democracy can achieve results. The breadth and depth of the reforms undertaken in Ukraine are truly impressive. Von der Leyen recognized that this path was not always easy but emphasized that it is a normal course for any democracy. They engage in discussions, disagreements, and further discussions to find solutions and, ultimately, achieve results.
Von der Leyen highlighted Ukraine's remarkable response to the ambitious seven recommendations presented by the European Commission last year when Ukraine was designated as a candidate for EU membership. The country's democratic institutions mobilized to fulfill the will of the Ukrainian people. Notable progress was made in reforming constitutional justice, the election of the High Council of Justice, and the adoption of an Anti-Corruption Program. Significant strides were also taken in combating money laundering and limiting the influence of oligarchs in public life. This includes a new media law and the resolution of issues related to the rights of national minorities.
As President Zelensky stated, Ukraine did not seek concessions or shortcuts but instead demonstrated that Ukrainian democracy can achieve results. The breadth and depth of the reforms undertaken in Ukraine are truly impressive. Von der Leyen recognized that this path was not always easy but emphasized that it is a normal course for any democracy. They engage in discussions, disagreements, and further discussions to find solutions and, ultimately, achieve results.
