New gov't in Ukraine to aid implementation of Minsk agreements: EU

The European Union here on Thursday said it believed the appointment of a new government in Ukraine would provide new momentum to the implementation of the Minsk agreements.

"Today's appointment of a new government in Ukraine, headed by Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman, is a crucial development at a time when new momentum in the country is badly needed," said EU foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini and Commissioner Johannes Hahn in a joint statement.

"We look forward to working with him to build a stronger Ukraine, on the basis of fundamental reform and accountable governance," it said.

The statement said the EU remains committed to supporting Ukraine politically and through financial and technical assistance in its efforts to "implement key reforms, modernize the country and fight corruption."

"In this context, we will support the new government to ensure that key political and economic institutions function efficiently and transparently, and that the rule of law is strengthened," the leaders said.

The officials also called on all parties to follow through on their commitments concerning the implementation of the Minsk agreement.

Ukrainian Parliament Speaker Volodymyr Groysman was elected the country's new prime minister on Thursday.

Groysman, a 38-year-old former businessman and a close ally of President Petro Poroshenko, announced his bid for premiership on Wednesday, naming deregulation, economic growth and anti-corruption as his top priorities. Endit