Baltic, Ukrainian PMs discuss EU-Ukraine relations in Latvia

Prime ministers of the three Baltic states and Ukraine met here on Thursday to discuss European Union (EU)-Ukraine relations, Europe's security policy, and the implementation of the Minsk agreement, as well as reforms in Ukraine.

At the end of the meeting, the premiers issued a joint statement pledging to keep their attention on Ukraine to achieve stabilization in the region.

The Baltic states said they were prepared not only to politically back Ukraine's efforts to build closer ties with the EU, but also provide practical assistance by sharing reform experience in public administration, agriculture, and combating corruption. The statement was signed by Latvian Prime Minister Laimdota Straujuma, Lithuanian Prime Minister Algirdas Butkevicius, Estonian Prime Minister Taavi Roivas and Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk.

The current situation allows for cautious optimism that hostilities in Ukraine have ended for good, the premiers said when expressing appreciation for the Ukrainian government's contribution to the implementation of the Minsk ceasefire agreement. They also stressed that all foreign troops and military formations must leave Ukrainian territory to allow Kiev to take full control of the entire territory and borders of Ukraine.

The EU must continue to provide consolidated support to Ukraine's reforms, with emphasis on fighting corruption and judicial reforms. The reforms are essential for easing the visa regime between the EU and Ukraine.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Straujuma asserted the Baltics' solidarity with Ukraine, assuring that Latvia would always take a stand for Ukraine's territorial integrity. "It is important for Ukraine and the EU to stay united in their support both in the political and reform aspect," said Straujuma.

Yatsenyuk described the meeting with his Baltic counterparts as historic and said the Baltic states' support for Ukraine's unity was highly appreciated. Endit