WASHINGTON, December 3 (Sputnik) – The United States welcomed the formation of a new government in Ukraine on Tuesday and pledged to continue support as the crisis-torn country faces economic turmoil, announced US Vice President Joe Biden.
“Today’s announcement on the formation of a new government sets the stage for the difficult but necessary process of implementing reforms and delivering results,” Biden said in a statement, marking the occasion. “The United States will support Ukraine’s new government to stabilize its economy, strengthen democratic institutions, and fight corruption.”
Biden, who visited the Ukrainian capital of Kiev in late November, said the United States would support Ukraine’s sovereignty and European integration “in the face of Russian aggression.”
Tuesday’s government formation brings together five pro-Western political parties in a coalition patched together amid political wrangling following elections in October. Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk, in power since February, will remain at the helm of government. The new cabinet includes three foreign technocrats in key posts such as finance minister for Natalie Jaresko, a US citizen.
In addition to the new government, the parliament also approved the formation of a new Information Ministry. Reporters Without Borders, an international media watchdog criticized the establishment of a ministry, saying that it would hinder independent media in the country.
