Brussels, 21/08/2013 (Agence Europe) - Any economic threat from Russia towards Ukraine and linked to Kiev's possible signing of the association agreement with the EU with a free trade area (DCFTA) is unacceptable, a European Commission spokesperson told EUROPE on 20 August. Several Russian leaders have stressed that this agreement would lead to a permanent tightening of customs procedures for the entry of Ukrainian products to Russia. The Commission wonders about the foundations of the restriction of Ukrainian exports by Russia, the spokesperson also stated.
The EU has called on Kiev and Moscow to find a solution to the dilemma rapidly. “The European Commission calls for both partners to find a rapid solution to this issue and underlined the need for both sides to work together and resolve this trade question in full respect of WTO rules and obligations”, stated John Clancy, the spokesperson for European Commissioner for Trade Karel De Gucht, on 16 August, referring inter alia to respect of the principle of free movement of goods and services. The EU said that it was going to continue to follow the situation “closely” and to maintain a regular dialogue with all parties concerned.
For the EU, according to a spokesperson, it is “of fundamental importance” that the free trade area negotiated between the EU and Ukraine does not prevent Kiev from developing “a constructive relationship” with the customs union (Russia, Kazakhstan and Belarus) and the Eurasian Economic Area, “as long as this relationship is based on the respect of WTO principles and rules, and as long as it does not contradict the future” of this free trade area between the EU and Ukraine.
While the EU remains firmly committed to signing the association agreement if Kiev makes sufficient progress (see EUROPE 10793), Ukraine must also “solve the current trade issues and contribute to create a climate conducive to a favourable decision”, a spokesperson recalled.
Upon their arrival at the Foreign Affairs Council on 21 August, several ministers also criticised the Russian position. “The EU must say that it is not acceptable. We must be united and defend our Ukrainian partner”, said Linas Linkevicius from Lithuania. The EPP and S&D Groups at the European Parliament also criticised Russia's attitude. The Parliament's foreign affairs committee has decided to organise a special meeting to discuss this issue inter alia on 28 August. (CG/transl.fl)