I would like to congratulate Volodymyr Zelenskiy on his clear election victory. These elections are a reflection of a vibrant and strong democracy in Ukraine.

Five years after the Maidan revolution, the new Ukrainian President is assuming great responsibility for his country and its future. We would like to wish him every success and a sure hand.

In the election campaign, Volodymyr Zelenskiy pledged to undertake further reform and also to fight corruption. Germany will continue to stand closely at Ukraine’s side in supporting these efforts.

Progress on the path to resolving the conflict in eastern Ukraine and occupied Crimea continue to be of vital importance for Ukraine. Together with our partner France, Germany stands ready to play its part within the framework of the Minsk Agreements and also in the Normandy Format.

President Poroshenko has accomplished a great deal for his country over the past five years. We would also like to thank him for setting this peaceful constitutional transition in motion yesterday.