President: We must bring Ukraine on par with advanced countries

“This means that we must reach this level in all areas of the country’s life. Moreover, it should be done as soon as possible, which means we must rapidly advance towards the set goal, even ahead of Europe", said the President. “Today's meeting is only the first step towards this goal", he added.

He noted that the first draft program of economic reforms must be prepared no later than within 60 days. According to the President, the program would be separated into five main directions and seven relevant working groups would present suggestions on their elaboration.

Pursuant to President’s instruction the working groups would be chaired by:

Borys Kolesnykov – technological modernization of economy and infrastructure development group;

Volodymyr Semynozhenko – social sector reform group;

Viktor Tykhonov – regional economic development group;

Serhiy Tihipko – sustainable development, business climate and investments group;

Kostyantyn Hryshchenko – international integration and cooperation group;

Oleksandr Lavrynovych – legislative and institutional support group;

Hanna Herman – humanitarian and cultural reform group.

Viktor Yanukovych has addressed the Prime Minister, Chief of Presidential Administration Staff, all Government members to immediately start the work, ensure its effectiveness and proper interaction among all the groups.

He gave a separate instruction to regional governors and Chairman of the Council of Ministers of Crimea to establish regional committees on economic reforms in 10 days term.

"We will open new opportunities for people through comprehensive reforms", said the President.