Volodymyr Lytvyn, Chairman of The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, believes that the Ukrainians should realize their responsibility for the situation in the country.
Volodymyr Lytvyn, Chairman of The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, made this statement in the interview to "Vid Pershoyi Osoby" program (Era Radio) on 1 December. He reminded that the citizens supported the independence of Ukraine 19 years ago.
Assessing the period of independence, the Head of the Parliament stated, "There is a framework of the state, so Ukraine will remain a state." "Still, will it be a shapeless and weak state, or a powerful one?" he asked. V.Lytvyn sees many reasons for Ukraine "to remain insipid despite its intellect and capacities."
V.Lytvyn attaches great importance to the realization of responsibility for one´s choice and formation of the authorities.
Asked about the foreign policy of Ukraine, the Head of the Parliament characterized it as determinate. "A non-affiliated status will allow us to foster normal relations with both Russia and Europe. However, the security issues are essential," he stated. "There is a credit of confidence to Ukraine. Europe is satisfied that the President, the Government and The Verkhovna Rada are not arguing. We receive signs of encouragement from the European Union, namely, signing of the visa-free regime action plan, and progress in the conclusion of the agreement on free trade and political association with the European Union," V.Lytvyn stated.
The Chairman of The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine expects the association agreement to be signed next year. "Hungary will preside over the EU in the first half of 2011, while Poland in the second half. These countries are the friends of Ukraine. I have recently met the leaders of Hungary who declared their intention to support Ukraine. Poland has a similar stance," he stressed.