The European Union will continue to support the reforms that are being conducted in Odesa region.

Speaking at a briefing after a meeting with Odesa Regional Governor Maksym Stepanov on Tuesday, EU Ambassador to Ukraine Hugues Mingarelli said one of the goals of his visit to the region is to once again express support for the sovereignty and independence of Ukraine, as well as the reforms that were launched in the country four years ago.

He said together with the Odesa regional governor they discussed joint programs in such areas as fighting corruption, decentralization, development of small and medium-sized businesses, support of local communities, and expressed their willingness desire to strengthen their cooperation in all these areas.

The diplomat stressed the importance of Ukraine and Odesa region in particular for the EU.

Mingarelli said that during his Tuesday trip he visited Odesa port, met with representatives of local authorities and businessmen, as well as students.

On Wednesday, the ambassador plans to meet with representatives of the public and merged communities.