Talks with IMF on increasing gas tariffs at "hot stage" – Rada Speaker

Verkhovna Rada Chairman Andriy Parubiy says the discussion with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) about the increase in gas tariffs is now at its "hot stage".

Parubiy has noted that many recommendations have been put forward by the IMF, including on the increase in gas tariffs and privatization. "But the most important thing is an anti-corruption court," he told journalists, according to an UNIAN correspondent.

Read alsoUkraine and IMF: Critical pointAccording to Parubiy, at the meeting with IMF representatives, he spoke about increasing gas tariffs in stages. "But this discussion is still at a hot stage – the decision will be taken around May," he said.

"Therefore, I am convinced that it would be a right thing to adopt the law on the anti-corruption court before May – to show political will of the Ukrainian state and Ukrainian authorities to change, and then it will be much easier for us to discuss including the tariff issue," Parubiy said.

Read alsoUkraine finance minister says no agreement yet with IMF on anti-corruption courtAs UNIAN reported earlier, the team of experts of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), headed by Ron van Rooden, who arrived to hold technical consultations with the Ukrainian authorities on February 12-16, completed its work in Kyiv.

The IMF says that to receive the fifth tranche, Ukraine needs to ensure that the pension reform is consistent with the objectives of cooperation, as well as to pass a law on privatization, bring gas tariffs in line with import parity, create an anti-corruption court, and adopt a budget for 2018 with a deficit of no more than 2.5% of GDP.

In March 2015, the IMF approved a four-year Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program worth $17.5 billion. Of the amount, Ukraine has received four tranches worth $8.7 billion. The program is expiring in March 2019.