OREANDA-NEWS. July 08, 2016. Prime Minister of Ukraine Volodymyr Groysman during a meeting with Secretary of State of the United States John Kerry discussed Ukraine's progress on the path of reform.

At a joint meeting of Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Andriy Parubiy with John Kerry, Volodymyr Groysman thanked the United States for supporting the Ukrainian Government on its path of reforms, which he felt during his visit to the USA, as well as the steadfast support in defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.

Volodymyr Groysman pointed out that the new Government, formed less than three months ago, launched a range of reforms, "which were not held in the country for decades." "Our Government is committed to carrying out reforms," ? he stressed.

The Prime Minister noted that the Government had taken a number of important decisions, including the deregulation of gas price in the country. "We are following the path of the transformation of Ukraine into a modern reformed country," he underlined.

He also said that the Government was committed to combating corruption.

Volodymyr Groysman thanked the United States of America for its support and assistance in the amount of USD 220 million, which was announced during his visit to the USA.

The Prime Minister stressed that the Government had already launched a reform of the Ukrainian customs aimed at converting it into a transparent and effective service. He informed that in Ukraine there are 11 experts of customs and border services from the United States who assist in the implementation of this reform.

The Prime Minister informed that the Kyiv Commercial Court of Appeal lifted the arrest of accounts of the company Energoatom, which will allow it to fulfill the financial obligations to the American and European partners, including loan agreements and restore the confidence of foreign banks.

He also noted that the Government began the privatization of state-owned enterprises, including the preparation of the auction for the privatization of JSC Odesa Portside Plant.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the Ukrainian economy has potential for growth.

John Kerry, in turn, expressed support for Ukrainian reforms. He noted that the reforms help Ukraine attract investment and ensure economic growth. This, in particular, shows the forecast of economic growth by 1.5% in this year and 3% in 2017.

The sides also discussed the "Minsk process", as well as the US support to Ukraine in the defense sector.