Toronto Conference participants;
Credit: MAEE
Luxembourg has confirmed its continued support for the independence of Ukraine and its democratic reforms at the Ukraine Reform Conference in Toronto, Ontario (Canada).
Representing Luxembourg on this occasion, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Jean Asselborn, invited by his Canadian counterpart Chrystia Freeland, travelled to Toronto to participate in the conference, held from 2 to 4 July 2019.
The main aim of the Toronto conference is to review all aspects of Ukraine's efforts to pursue democratic reforms and maintain momentum supported by the London 2017 and Copenhagen 2018 conferences. In the presence of the newly elected President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, discussions focused on the political, security and economic challenges facing Ukraine.
Speaking at the conference on Tuesday, Jean Asselborn underlined that "Luxembourg continues to support relentlessly the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Ukraine within internationally recognised borders". He also noted that the Grand Duchy, along with its European partners, supports the full implementation of the Minsk agreements.
Recalling his many visits to Ukraine, the Luxembourg minister welcomed the positive steps taken by the Ukrainian authorities on the path of reform. Minister Asselborn particularly welcomed the implementation of the visa-free regime between Ukraine and the EU.
Despite recognition of this considerable progress, Jean Asselborn noted that "much remains to be done, especially in the fight against corruption". In this context, he encouraged the new Ukrainian leaders to strengthen momentum for reforms and to ensure their sustainability.
The Luxembourg Foreign Minister concluded by urging Ukraine to speed up the implementation of the Association Agreement with the EU, assuring that "the EU and its Member States will continue to support Ukraine on the path of reform".
The first day of the conference ended with a dinner hosted by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in honour of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
