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Van Rompuy shares concerns with Ukrainian civil society

20-12-2011

The conclusion of talks on the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement is a giant step in bilateral relations, President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy told representatives of Ukrainian civil society in Kyiv. However, the perceived deterioration of the quality of democracy and rule of law in Ukraine may make the ratification and signing of the Association Agreement more difficult, he insisted.

 
A number of recent domestic developments in Ukraine had led to a difficult atmosphere in bilateral relations, Van Rompuy said, in particular citing the politically motivated justice in Ukraine, of which the Tymoshenko trial was the most striking example.
 
Other shortcomings related to ensuring fundamental freedoms in Ukraine and the interference between political considerations and the application of criminal law, which are widely noted in European public opinion, “adding to our strong concern,” Van Rompuy said.
 
The President underlined that “the respect for these principles, enshrined in the Eastern Partnership and at the core of the Association Agreement, is decisive for the pace and depth of rapprochement with the EU,” adding: “It is also fundamental to Ukraine's future development as a competitive, dynamic and innovative society.”
 
He said the parliamentary elections to be held next year “will be a litmus test.” The conduct of these elections will have to meet the commitments of the OSCE, he emphasized.
 
The President said “We share the common interest of a closer EU-Ukraine relationship, not just between governments but also between our people,” and insisted on the need for “concrete results in delivering reform that are broadly supported, and stand by the test of time.” (ENPI Info Centre) 
 
Read more
 
Statement
 
EU-Ukraine summit
 
Delegation of the EU to Ukraine
 
ENPI Info Centre webpage - Ukraine