Brussels, 15/05/2012 (Agence Europe) - The EU-Ukraine Cooperation Council meeting on Tuesday 15 May stated that “any progress towards political association and economic integration will depend on Ukraine's performance, notably in relation to respect for common values and the rule of law”. It raised EU concerns over selective justice, the rule of law, the situation of members of the former government and the elections of October 2012. “Political association is there, economic integration too. All that is needed is for Ukraine to show it is willing to commit to sharing European values”, said Danish Foreign Minister Villy Sovndal. “There is no plan B to fall back on … but that does not mean we are going to make concessions on democracy”, added Enlargement Commissioner Stefan Füle.
Stating clearly that he rejects the EU view that his country is “persecuting” members of the opposition, Ukrainian Prime Minister Mykola Azarov highlighted the progress that has been made by his country. “The reforms have been undertaken, not to fill in a roadmap but because we believe in them. We want to transform Ukraine so that every citizen feels protected by the judicial apparatus”, he added.
The Council of the EU and the European Neighbourhood Policy progress report on Ukraine, published the same day, underline the great strides made by the country, such as the adoption of a new criminal code, progress in implementing the action plan on visas and in energy reform. The progress report also calls for initiatives to be put in place to tackle conflicts of interest and corruption; legislation on freedom of the press and freedom of assembly; and improved transparency in the management of public finances.
The Cooperation Council also wants to launch an informal dialogue on the business climate and enhanced cooperation in foreign, security and defence policies. (CG/transl.rt)