Advice from the German ambassador

The new leadership has declared its intention to implement many a reform in both international and domestic spheres, as well as that of the national economy. However, there have been different responses to these changes, in Ukraine and abroad. How does Germany see President Yanukovych’s first 100 days, his recent steps, and the declarations of the new regime? Here is The Day’s interview with Dr. Hans-Jurgen Heimsoeth, German ambassador to Ukraine.

“I think it’s important that the government and parliament have passed the law on state purchasing. This step is now being analyzed by EU and World Bank experts. The presented reform program shows that the government is basically willing to change the situation. However, in my opinion, those reforms which are the most necessary and at the same time the most painful, are too far in the future.

“So altogether, I could say that these are important measures. But what will matter more is their implementation. Ukraine needs urgent changes. It has to do everything to show the investors that they are most welcome, because at present, the investment climate is far from perfect.”

What do you think of the new regime’s declaration of Ukraine’s EU integration as its strategic priority?

“It’s great that both the president and parliament realize that Ukraine has to move forward. It’s very positive that there is an understanding of the importance of the Treaty on Association with the EU. Overall, the new leadership declares quite reasonable things about European integration, and I support it.”

Yet how about the new leadership’s refusal to join NATO, as it passed the first reading of the law stipulating Ukraine’s non-aligned status? Is this decision going to influence cooperation between Germany and Ukraine?

“This is Ukraine’s decision, its parliament’s and government’s. And as far as I understand, the government is ready to cooperate with NATO countries while we, on the other hand, are ready for such cooperation. What concerns Germany, we hope for more extensive econonic contacts with Ukraine, but for this you will need to be more open to international capital, more transparent, and ready to fight corruption.”