UK names prerequisite for implementing reforms in Ukraine
Wendy Morton, Minister for European Neighbourhood and the Americas at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), said this during the 4th Ukraine Reform Conference in Vilnius on July 7, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.
"To implement reforms, Ukraine needs independent anti-corruption institutions and a reform of the judicial system. This is a prerequisite for almost all reforms that would contribute to strengthening Ukraine's resilience. This is crucial," she said.
According to Morton, Ukraine is now fighting on two fronts - "we all know the scale of the challenges that come both from Russia and from within the country, and these challenges are undermining the reform process."
The British minister criticized, in particular, the attempt to use the Constitutional Court of Ukraine to "reverse the progress made by anti-corruption institutions." At the same time, she stressed that recent steps towards the High Qualification Commission of Judges show that progress can be achieved "if Ukrainians from the government, opposition and civil society are committed to reforms together with international experts and work together."
She also emphasized the importance of continuing international solidarity with Ukraine and its support in implementing reforms in the country.
"Reforms remain the best long-term defense against Russian aggression, as well as the best way to attract investment and improve Ukraine's economic competitiveness," the minister said.
In addition, real reforms strengthening the rule of law will also "open up the Euro-Atlantic path that the Ukrainian people have chosen for themselves" and ensure Ukraine's progress towards a safer and more prosperous future.
Morton pledged Britain's unwavering support for both the reform process in Ukraine and the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
As reported, on Wednesday, July 7, the 4th Ukraine Reform Conference opened at the Presidential Palace in Vilnius (Lithuania), which will last for two days.
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