Poroshenko urges EU to finalize ratification of Association Agreement

President Petro Poroshenko urged the European Union to expedite the ratification of the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement, the introduction of visa-free travel for Ukrainian citizens, and conclusion of the European Common Aviation Area Agreement.

He said it during a meeting with new head of the EU Delegation to Ukraine Hugues Mingarelli, Censor.NET reports referring to the Presidential Administration press service.

Talking to the newly appointed ambassador of the European Union to Ukraine, the president noted exceptional importance of preserving solidarity and unity between the EU and Ukraine and expressed hope for the continuation of sanctions against Russia until the complete termination of Russian aggression and restoration of Ukraine's territorial integrity.

Poroshenko praised yesterday's decision of the Committee of Permanent Representatives in the European Union (COREPER) regarding the extension of personal sanctions: "We appreciate yesterday's decision on the prolongation of individual sanctions against the aggressor, which will be finalized by the EU Council on Sept. 15. This is a very important and symbolic decision."

The president urged the EU to finalize ratification of the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement, the introduction of a visa-free regime for Ukrainian citizens, and the conclusion of a European Common Aviation Area Agreement.

"I am really honored, proud and happy to represent the EU in a very important European country - Ukraine. I will do my best to contribute to sovereignty and territorial integrity of this country," Ambassador of the European Union to Ukraine Hugues Mingarelli said.

He expressed willingness to use his experience to help implement reforms in Ukraine.