President Victor Yushchenko met today in London with Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Gordon Brown, according to the President`s press-office.
At the meeting sides discussed many questions in bilateral relations between Ukraina and Great Britain.
After the meeting Victor Yushchenko held press availability to inform journalists on the results of the talks with Gordon Brown. Quoting the Joint Statement with Mr. Brown, Mr. Yushchenko said: “The President and the Prime Minister are confident that opened doors for Ukraine’s membership in the EU lies within interests of both states. Ukraine is the European state. It has potential in increasing prosperity and strengthening security of the EU. Immediately after Ukraine having met the criteria of membership it should become a fully fledged member of the EU. Grate Britain considers that the next step for EU and Ukraine should become signature of an association agreement including an advanced free trade zone.” Regarding Great Britain’s position on Euro-Atlantic integration of Ukraine the document says: “We [Great Britain] will cooperate to help Ukraine reach this goal as soon as possible”.
Besides, President Yushchenko informed, that he and Prime Minister Brown have initiated beginning of talks on reciprocal simplification of visa regulations for citizens of both countries.
Overall V. Yushchenko described the Statement and agreements reached as historical.
