On June 15, 2016, Chairperson of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Foreign Affairs Hanna Hopko met with President of the Senate of the Kingdom of the Netherlands Ankie Broekers-Knol.
The Parties discussed the issues of adoption of the Ukraine - European Union Association Agreement, introduction of visa-free regime for the citizens of Ukraine, and the armed conflict in the east of Ukraine, etc.
Ms. Ankie Broekers-Knol noted that in compliance with the latest statement dated June 13 the Prime Minister of her country is doing his best to find a compromise on the ratification of the Association Agreement by the Netherlands. Member of the Senate from the Socialist Party Bastiaan van Apeldoorn, who opposes the ratification of the Association Agreement, noted that the socialists believe that although the issue of the association with Ukraine is not on the agenda in view of a wide range of internal problems in Europe, quite probably it will be considered later.
The President of the Senate expressed hope that before late June 2016, the Government will manage to offer a compromise to elaborate the decision acceptable for all the parties.
The Ukrainian parliamentarian also reminded that Ukraine had fulfilled all the requirements for the introduction of the visa-free regime for its citizens and excluded any risk of mass migration of the Ukrainians to the EU after the visa regime is lifted.
The participants in the meeting noted absence of any alternative to the peaceful settlement of the situation in Donbas.
Hanna Hopko expressed hope that after its visit to Ukraine, the Dutch delegation will be able to present European Ukraine — the country the willing to restore peace and join the European community.