U.S. expects Ukraine to speed up creation of anti-corruption court - assistant secretary of state
U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Kirsten Madison said this at a briefing at the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) on Friday, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.
"Independent anti-corruption institutions are essential. Passing legislation to establish the High Anti-Corruption Court was a major milestone. But taking the next steps to establish and fully fund a functioning, independent and effective court is crucial to Ukraine's development. We expect Ukraine to establish the court promptly, as promised by the government," she said.
Madison noted that in order to integrate into Europe, attract investment and develop its economy Ukraine needs to fulfill its obligations and eradicate corruption, which is contrary to the principles and norms of a democratic society.
At the same time, she acknowledged that the Ukrainian authorities were making incredible reform efforts, "transforming the systems of the past into modern institutions that can provide greater justice and security for all Ukrainian citizens."
Head of the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office Nazar Kholodnytsky believes that the High Anti-Corruption Court will start working not earlier than April next year.
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