Polish 'shock therapist' Balcerowicz to help reform Ukraine

Balcerowicz, architect of the economic 'shock therapy' applied to Poland following the 1989 collapse of the communist regime, had talks with Poroshenko in Kiev over the weekend.

''Poland is a model state, which successfully reformed its economy and became a full member of the European Union and the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development),'' Poroshenko said.

''Ukraine, which has set out on the road of reform, is interested in Poland's experiences,'' he added.

Poroshenko noted that Polish reforms to local government were among the spheres of interest.

''Today we have a government which has the highest potential, one that is very professional and pro-European,'' he said.

''We have a unique opportunity to carry out reforms in the country.''

Balcerowicz said that reforming Ukraine's budget is of the utmost importance, but that the government must also strive to protect the most needy groups in society.

His visit follows on from that of a delegation led by Prime Minister Kopacz on 19 January, when Ukraine's prospective reforms were discussed. (nh)

Source: PAP