US Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink emphasized the importance of fighting corruption and continuing reforms, as this directly affects support for the Ukrainian military. She emphasized that Ukraine’s accession to the OECD Anti-Bribery Convention is a key stage on the way to membership in the European Union.
About this Brink stated during the conference “Ukraine on the way to the OECD and accession to the OECD Convention on Combating Bribery”, which took place in Kyiv.
“I know that the topic of our meeting is dedicated to the OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development – ed.), but I would like to step back for a moment and say that I see this as the hopes and dreams of the Ukrainian people and our support for this. Because the struggle against corruption and supporting reforms is actually aimed at making sure that the defenders, the heroes on the front lines, are supported by money that comes from various aspects of the state. Fighting corruption means supporting the defenders on the front lines.”, – said Brink.
Brigitte Brink also emphasized the importance of creating a favorable investment climate, because the attraction of private investment is crucial for the post-war recovery of the country. “We are talking about significant sums – hundreds of billions of dollars, which are needed to restore Ukraine,” the diplomat added.
In addition, the ambassador emphasized that the fight against corruption and the implementation of reforms contribute to the advancement of Ukraine towards membership in the EU and NATO, which is one of the key strategic directions.
“And this is what we also strongly support from the US side. Adherence to these international standards is also a very important part of achieving this goal. So, in my opinion, simply supporting reforms and fighting corruption is supporting the dreams and wishes of the people of Ukraine.”, – added Brink.
She also noted that Ukraine must fulfill a number of requirements to join the OECD Convention, and assured that the US will continue to support Ukraine on this path.
“I know it’s difficult for you, but we will continue to help you”, – added Brink.
