Merkel recognizes Ukraine's reform, pledges further aid

German Chancellor Angela Merkel (R) and the Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseni Jazenjuk make a statement on their previuos talk during a press conference in the Federal Chancellery in Berlin, Germany, April 1, 2015. [Photo/IC]

BERLIN - German Chancellor Angela Merkel recognized on Wednesday Ukraine's reform efforts and pledged further assistance to the country.

Addressing a press conference after meeting Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseny Yatsenyuk, Merkel recognized reform process in Ukraine, particularly its efforts to fight against corruption and increase transparency in the country's tax system.

She and Yatsenyuk, said Merkel, have discussed details on the use of Germany's financial assistance to Ukraine.

In addition, the chancellor pledged further aid within the scope of development cooperation to provide care for refugees as well as treatment for wounded Ukrainian soldiers.

Speaking about the current situation in eastern Ukraine, Merkel noted that it "has certainly become calmer" in terms of military conflicts, but "a cease-fire is not yet fully established."

Germany, together with France, would continue to support efforts of all parties to implement the peace deals struck in Minsk, added the chancellor.