On 19 April 2021, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Yevheniy Yenin had a telephone conversation with U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Europe and Eurasia David De Falco.

Given massive Russian troops buildup around Ukraine’s borders and in the temporarily occupied Crimea, the Deputy Minister noted the importance of the United States' response to Russia's aggressive behavior.

«Additional sanctions against the Kremlin, imposed by President Biden’s Administration last week, were a very timely response to Russia's subversive actions», Yevheniy Yenin underlined. He expressed his gratitude to the U.S. side for the staunch support of Ukraine in countering Russian aggression and the leading role of the United States in consolidating the Western world efforts to make Russia respect the fundamental principles of international law.

The tasks to deepen bilateral cooperation in trade, economic, investment and technological spheres were on the focus of the conversation.

The parties discussed Ukraine’s progress in implementing structural reforms. David De Falco stressed that ensuring the rule of law and implementing an effective judicial reform as well as strengthening the system of anti-corruption institutions in Ukraine are the key to further business climate improvement and involving the U.S. investments.

The Deputy Assistant Secretary of Commerce also paid attention to finalization of land reform and launching a large-scale privatization in Ukraine. He underscored the United States’ strong position to continue providing assistance for successful implementation of reform agenda in Ukraine.

David De Falco welcomed an expected opening a Consulate General in Houston, given the high economic potential of Texas and significant prospects for cooperation, in particular in the oil and gas sector. He noted that the Office of the Commerce Department in Houston will be able to provide the Ukrainian Consulate General with practical assistance in establishing direct business contacts, organizing official and business visits of the Ukrainian delegations to Texas as well as in monitoring execution of contracts.