Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently met with Mathias Cormann, Secretary-General of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), marking Cormann’s fourth visit to Ukraine. The meeting focused on Ukraine’s renewed application for OECD membership, which has been officially submitted by Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko.
Zelensky expressed optimism that Ukraine could achieve candidate status for OECD membership by this autumn. Cormann reaffirmed the OECD’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s reform efforts, even amidst the ongoing conflict. He noted that reviews of infrastructure policy, public governance, and justice systems indicate significant progress in the country.
“We aim for Ukraine to achieve a just, secure, and lasting peace. This is our top priority. Additionally, it is a true honor for me to support your government in its reform and modernization efforts,” Cormann stated.
During their discussions, Zelensky and Cormann also addressed Ukraine’s European integration progress, the opening of new negotiation clusters with the EU, the implementation of a financial support package from the European Union, and the strengthening of sanctions against Russia. Zelensky further shared insights from the recent G7 summit held in France.
On October 5, 2022, the OECD recognized Ukraine as a potential member, a development announced by former Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal. The OECD, established in 1961, is an international organization comprising 38 member countries, primarily high-income nations with advanced human development indices.
The meeting between President Zelensky and OECD Secretary-General Cormann marks a significant step in Ukraine's pursuit of OECD membership. With a renewed application submitted, both leaders discussed ongoing reforms and Ukraine's integration into Europe, emphasizing the importance of continued support amid the ongoing conflict.