Lithuanian businessman among ministerial candidates in Ukraine

Jovita Neliupšienė, the Lithuanian president’s chief adviser on foreign policy issues, told the Žinių Radijas news radio on Tuesday morning that Abromavičius has been suggested for the position of infrastructure minister, stressing that he would not be delegated by Lithuania.

“We know about this fact, but the fact has not materialized as the Ukrainian government has not made the final decision yet. It’s worth noting that the man’s personal qualities are appreciated this way but he will not be delegated by the Lithuanian government or Lithuanian institutions. We now have other people who are delegated and are working for Ukrainian institutions and they include former presidential adviser on economic issues Nerijus Udrėnas. He is also working for one of the ministries responsible for economic reforms,” Neliupšienė said.

In her words, attempts are being made to get not only Lithuanian citizens but also representatives of other foreign countries involved in the Ukrainian government.

Abromavičius is a partner in property and stock management company East Capital.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said last week that Ukraine needed to change its legislation to allow foreigners to work for state institutions, including the Cabinet.

Update: Abramovičius granted Ukrainian citizenship

Lithuanian businessman Aivaras Abromavičius who, has been proposed for the post of Ukrainian economy minister, was granted the Ukrainian citizenship, Russia’s Interfax news agency said citing a decree signed by Ukraine’s President Petro Poroshenko.

BNS was unable to contact Abromavičius for comment.