EU notes progress in Minsk agreements implementation - Mogherini

Speaking at a joint briefing with Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko in Kyiv on Monday, Mogherini said that her meetings with Poroshenko are always very productive. In her words, they exchanged views on the implementation of the provisions of the Minsk agreements and noted that progress had been made, in particular, on the observance of the ceasefire and the withdrawal of heavy weaponry. Mogherini said that an important meeting of the foreign ministers of the Normandy Four was held recently and that they continue to support the full implementation of all provisions of the Minsk agreements by all involved parties. The tension in eastern Ukraine should not spill over to the south, she added. At the same time, she said that the EU welcomes Ukraine's efforts and reiterated that they remain united in their support, both in the matter of the annexation of Crimea, and the reform process in Ukraine, Mogherini said. In addition, Mogherini said that she and Poroshenko had discussed the recent local elections, and what needs to be done to ensure that these elections are held throughout eastern Ukraine and are accessible to OSCE observers and observation missions. Practical and specific steps on this path should be made, Mogherini added.