Japan’s Justice Minister Koizumi Ryuji has agreed to help Ukraine tackle corruption. It is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed in order for Ukraine to secure more support from the international community.
Koizumi on Monday met with Ukrainian Justice Minister Denys Maliuska and Prosecutor General Andrii Kostin during a visit to Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital.
Widespread corruption among government officials has been a hurdle for Ukraine to secure greater international support in its fight against Russia.
During the talks, Koizumi and Maliuska signed a memorandum of understanding for cooperation in the training of personnel at investigative agencies, as well as the development of legislation.
Japanese officials say they have experience providing similar assistance in Asia.
Maliuska thanked Japan for providing economic, diplomatic and legal support, saying the country is an important partner for Ukraine.
Koizumi said he learned from his talks with Ukrainian officials that combating corruption is the most important challenge for Ukraine. He said Japan is ready to assist Ukraine’s anti-corruption and legal reform campaign.
Koizumi said the nation’s recovery hinges on the equitable and transparent distribution of reconstruction funds from the international community.