You're reading: Azarov: New government to focus on strengthening middle class in Ukraine

The new Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine will focus on the country's economic development and strengthening the middle class, according to a statement posted on the cabinet's Web site, referring to Ukrainian Premier Mykola Azarov.

"We will make every effort for Ukraine to become a state with no sharp property contrasts, where the middle class will account for more than half of the population. The gross domestic product per capita should be at a level of at least that of the new European Union members," the statement reads.

The head of government named development and the approval of a realistic national budget as priority tasks.

"The key task, the liquidation of poverty, will be started through the budget," Azarov said.

According to the premier, the fulfillment of a law on increasing social standards will be taken as the basis for the national budget. In addition, the budget approval will unblock the solution to many questions: from preparations for Euro 2012 to the financial provision of regions.

"The question of the budget’s replenishment appears at the same time. The answer here is extremely simple. It is the economy recovery. The budget deficit is to be minimal and each free hryvnia should be invested in development," the statement reads.

The head of government also promises to bring order to state finances.

Among the cabinet’s priorities Azarov named the building of a state system with the supremacy of law, without corruption and with the diktat of "political reasonability." The premier noted the importance of forming the most favorable investment climate for citizens and business, and ensuring the rights and freedoms of citizens in Ukraine and their protection outside the country.