Brussels / Strasbourg, 27/04/2001 (Agence Europe) - Speaking on behalf of the European Union, the Swedish Presidency issued the following statement: "The European Union is following with close attention the recent developments in Ukraine. It is seriously concerned that the fall of the Yushchenko government may set back the process of economic and political reform, given the considerable achievements that his government has made over the past year. In the opinion of the European Union, Mr Yushchenko's devoted work to introduce real economic and structural reforms in Ukraine has proven to be a very difficult task in which he, given the circumstances, has nevertheless achieved notable successes. For the first time in many years, positive tendencies were seen in the Ukrainian economy, while social priorities were also observed. The European Union reiterates its opinion that the sort of economic and structural reforms implemented by Mr Yushchenko in Ukraine are inevitable and essential, as in all transition countries. Without such comprehensive reforms there can be no sustainable positive development in the country. Continued progress in this respect is also a pre-requisite for a deeper relationship with the EU. The European Union believes that the priority for Ukraine today should be to consolidate the political and economic reform process, in order to build a stable and prosperous society based on shared values of democracy, a strong civil society and market economy principles. This is crucial for Ukraine, but also very important for maintaining the confidence of the outside world. The European Union urges the President, Government and Parliament of Ukraine to engage in an intensified and constructive dialogue, in the interests of all parties, including the Ukrainian people. The European Union reiterates that it supports a strong, stable and democratic Ukraine oriented towards Europe".
After the vote of censure by the Ukrainian parliament, the EU High Representative for CFSP, Javier Solana, declared: "Prime Minister Yushchenko and his programme of reforms had the confidence of the European Union. I regret the outcome of today's vote. Ukraine will commit a serious mistake if its changes the way that economic and political reforms are taking place. At this moment, it is very important that the programme of reforms continues in order to promote the much needed economic and political stability".
Furthermore, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe renounced, on Thursday in Strasbourg, its call for Ukraine to be suspended as proposed by its follow-up committee on respect of commitments taken during accession (see EUROPE of 9 April, p.6). While noting that Ukraine does not respect its obligations regarding respect of democracy, human rights and the rule of law, the Assembly considers it useful to give the country more time to comply with its commitments. During the debate, MEPs denounced the many failings of this country and the many violations of human rights to which journalists and the opposition are notably victims, but no voice was raised in support of suspension procedure.