European Commissioner for Trade Cecilia Malmstrom, at a meeting with Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy Yatseniuk, has confirmed the readiness of the European Union (EU) to provide further comprehensive assistance in the implementation of democratic reforms and countering Russian aggression.

The press service of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine reported on November 13 that the EU is ready to provide assistance in the implementation of democratic reforms aimed at deepening cooperation between Ukraine and the EU.

Yatseniuk noted the importance of assistance rendered by the EU to Ukraine and stressed the need to preserve unity within the EU regarding support for Ukraine.

The sides discussed the concrete steps required before the introduction of a free trade area between Ukraine and the EU from January 1, 2016, increased access of Ukrainian exporters to the EU markets, as well as a range of measures to promote exports and attract direct foreign investment to the Ukrainian economy.

"In this context, the interlocutors noted the importance of the business forum Ukraine - EU due to be held in February of 2016, which will contribute to the establishment of direct contacts between Ukrainian and European producers," the press service said.

During the meeting the sides also tackled the progress of government reforms and the ways to facilitate their implementation.

"The prime minister of Ukraine aired a possibility of establishing a fund to increase payments to Ukrainian civil servants and additional expert and technical support from the EU for a number of government initiatives," the press service said.

Moreover, Yatseniuk and Malmstrom discussed the prospects of the peaceful settlement of the situation in eastern Ukraine.