KIEV, UKRAINE — On Aug. 21, Ukrainian and U.S. officials met to discuss the progress and reform of Ukraine’s agriculture sector. The main goal for the Ukrainian agriculture sector is to reform E.U. standards.

The transparent reform was discussed with Vladislava Rutytskoyi of the Economic Department, diplomat Daniel Nibarherom and Deputy Economic Counselor of the Embassy of the U.S. Tom Johnson.

"One of the main priorities of the Ministry of Agrarian Policy of Ukraine is facilitating the development of domestic agriculture, maximum utilization of agricultural potential and diversifying foreign markets,” said Vladislav Rutytskoyi. “During the first half of 2015 the amount of exports of agricultural products amounted to $6.7 billion. That is 36% of the total exports of Ukraine.”

The U.S. side noted the positive progress of reforming agriculture and assured Ukraine of its willingness to support reform.

The deputy minister emphasized that a separate and integral part of reforming the agricultural sector is the active work of bringing the Ukrainian legislation to the norms and requirements of the E.U.

In addition, the parties discussed possible challenges facing the agricultural sector.
In particular, Daniel Nibarherom praised the prompt action Ukraine and other state authorities have taken to combat and prevent the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF) in Ukraine.

State Veterinary and Phytosanitary Service Deputy Oleksandr Verzhyhovsky said that Ukraine has taken all measures to prevent the spread of ASF in Ukraine in accordance with Animal Health Information. They intend to be transparent and keep others informed on the continuous operation of the situation.

Both parties noted that Ukraine is showing transparency to the veterinary authorities and services in addressing these challenges.