The EU plans to begin negotiations on Ukraine’s accession in June and is counting on effective anti-corruption efforts.

The head of the EU Consultative Mission in Ukraine, Rolf M. Hay Pereira Holmboe, said that negotiations on Ukraine’s accession to the EU can begin in June. He emphasized that the most difficult task ahead is adopting legislation that complies with EU standards with regard to the implementation of the “fundamental principles” (standards related to the rule of law, democracy, human rights, and the fight against corruption).

“The sooner Ukraine can move forward on the sections that should be aligned with EU standards, the sooner the European Commission will be able to submit a proposal for Ukraine’s membership in the EU,” Holmboe explained.

The EU also has high expectations regarding the fight against corruption in Ukraine. The official emphasized that the EU and other international partners insist on strengthening the roles of Ukraine’s special anti-corruption bodies.

Meanwhile, the strategic plan for reforming law enforcement agencies in Ukraine is at the final stage of coordination and will be approved in the near future.