Zelensky, von der Leyen discuss EU macro-financial assistance to Ukraine

They discussed these issues during a phone conversation on August 28, the press service of the head of state reported.

Zelensky noted that the Ukrainian side is committed to close interaction with EU institutions in order to ensure the maximum efficiency of the summit.

The interlocutors exchanged views on the main issues of the Ukraine-EU agenda and further steps needed to strengthen the strategic partnership and deepen economic integration between Ukraine and the European Union. Zelensky expressed hope that a joint statement, which will be adopted following the summit, will reflect the high level of ambitions of Ukraine and the EU for the further development of relations.

"Ukraine and the EU, despite the objective difficulties associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, continue the economic integration and strengthen the strategic partnership. In the near future, the Verkhovna Rada will adopt a number of laws on the implementation of the Association Agreement. During the summit, Ukraine will be ready to discuss progress in the implementation of the Agreement and key reforms," Zelensky stated.

In turn, Ursula von der Leyen stressed her full support for Ukraine's integration into the European Union.

The President also noted the importance of the EU decision to provide Ukraine with macro-financial assistance in the amount of EUR 1.2 billion to support macroeconomic stability and the reform process. He expressed hope that the first tranche of EU macro-financial assistance worth EUR 600 million would be allocated in the near future without additional conditions.

"The Government of Ukraine has already begun work on fulfilling the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding between Ukraine and the EU to make it possible to receive the second tranche of macro-financial assistance by the end of this year," the President said.

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