Brussels, 03/12/2013 (Agence Europe) - A comprehensive agreement signed in Vilnius on 28 November during the Eastern Partnership summit paves the way for the EU and Ukraine to open up their respective aviation markets. In joining the Common Aviation Area, Ukraine agrees to align its legislation with EU aviation rules in areas such as air safety and air traffic management. It will also help to facilitate investment, increase the number of connections and reduce ticket prices. European Commissioner for Transport Siim Kallas was delighted with this agreement and said that this would make the EU and Ukraine “partners in aviation through gradual market integration. It is an important stepping stone for our strategy to achieve closer cooperation between the EU and its neighbours, particularly in the context of the Eastern Partnership”. Similar agreements have already been signed with Ukraine's neighbouring countries. (MD/transl.fl)