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The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) has signed an agreement with the Ministry of Finance of Ukraine to involve Ukraine in the EU program for combating fraud (2021-2027). The document was signed by EU Commissioner for Budget and Administration Johannes Hahn and Ukrainian Minister of Finance Serhiy Marchenko, as reported on the European agency’s website.
“Ukraine can benefit primarily from the first component of the program, which provides targeted assistance to member states and associated countries in fulfilling their commitments to protect the financial interests of the EU. This component funds the purchase of specialized equipment and tools for combating fraud, conducting special training, as well as targeted conferences and research,” the European Anti-Fraud Office announcement said.
It is noted that Ukraine has become the first non-EU member state to officially participate in the EU Program to Counter Fraud. Joining the program will support its current efforts aimed at enhancing national operational capacity in combating fraud.
“Every day, Ukraine gets closer to EU membership. Joining the Program to Counter Fraud is another important step towards strengthening cooperation with the European Union and building reliable and transparent relations. The Government of Ukraine is fully committed to the Program’s goal and is ready to enhance cooperation to prevent any violations that harm the financial interests of both the EU and Ukraine,” said Ukrainian Minister of Finance Serhiy Marchenko.
According to Ukrainian officials, the signed Agreement between Ukraine and the EU will contribute to:
- Preventing and combating fraud, corruption, and any other illegal activities affecting the financial interests of Ukraine and the EU.
- Improving reporting processes on potential violations regarding EU funds.
- Implementing tools for operational exchange of administrative information between Ukraine and the EU in customs and agricultural matters.
The Ministry of Finance of Ukraine also emphasizes that the concluded agreement will improve transparency regarding potential violations concerning EU funds and facilitate operational exchange of administrative information between the parties in customs and agricultural matters.
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