03/07/2020 (Agence Europe) – On Thursday 2 July, the spokesman for the European External Action Service said that the announcement the previous day of the resignation of Yakiv Smolii, the Governor of the National Bank of Ukraine, against the backdrop of alleged political pressure being exerted on him, sent “a worrying signal”. “The Bank must maintain its ability to fulfil its role independently. Undermining this important institution jeopardises the credibility of and support for Ukraine’s reform agenda”, warned the spokesperson in a statement, adding that a strong and independent National Bank remains crucial to Ukraine's future success. The spokesperson reaffirmed the EU’s continued support for Kiev in implementing the necessary reforms, and its reliance on the Ukrainian authorities maintaining their level of commitment. (CG)