Brussels, 05/11/2004 (Agence Europe) - While it considers the Ukraine as a key partner and neighbour, in its conclusions, the European Council greatly 'regretted' that the first round of the Ukrainian election on 31 October had not respected established international standards for democratic elections (see EUROPE of 3 November, p.6). The EU welcomed the high turnout, which it described as a 'positive element'. The European Council therefore called on the Ukrainian authorities to remedy in good time the shortcomings noted in the 31 October elections ahead of the second round, urging them to establish a suitable climate for free and regular elections, by ensuring equal access of both candidates to state-controlled media.
Asked about the elections by reporters, Swedish foreign minister Laila Freivalds highlighted the importance of the EU strengthening its cooperation with the Ukraine. She said it is even more important for the second round of the elections on 21 November to take place properly and in line with international election standards.