Yermak, Dunnigan discuss Ukrainian-U.S. cooperation in energy sector, corporate governance reform, settlement in Donbas

KYIV. Sept 13 (Interfax-Ukraine) – Head of the President’s Office of Ukraine Andriy Yermak held a phone conversation with newly appointed U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State at the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Robin Dunnigan.

According to the presidential press service of Ukraine, Yermak greeted Dunnigan on his appointment and wished success in her endeavor.

The interlocutors exchanged views on the results of the visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to the United States, and next steps to implement the agreements reached and further strengthen the strategic partnership between Ukraine and the United States. They also discussed preparations for the meeting of the renewed Strategic Partnership Commission.

The parties discussed further cooperation in the energy sector. "Yermak said that Russia was using Nord Stream 2 as a weapon," the office said.

During the conversation, the head of the President’s Office and the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State touched the issue of corporate governance reform in Ukraine. Yermak said the government’s intention to announce a competition for the selection of four independent members of the Supervisory Board of NJSC Naftogaz Ukrainy in the coming days.

The head of the President’s Office also provided Ukraine’s views on the state of the negotiation process on a peaceful settlement in eastern Ukraine. The parties discussed the security situation near the Ukrainian borders.

"Robin Dunnigan thanked Ukraine for effective cooperation on the evacuation of citizens and at-risk individuals from Afghanistan. Yermak assured of readiness for further coordination of efforts and cooperation in relation to this country," the press service said.