Volodymyr Lytvyn, Chairman of The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine: The European Union should demonstrate Encouragement Policy, drawing Ukraine into the European Dimension
On Thursday, Volodymyr Lytvyn, Chairman of The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, met Ms Vaira Vike-Freiberga, Ex-President of the Republic of Latvia.
The Parties discussed a number of issues on the development of the Ukrainian State and its geopolitical presence.
Ms Vaira Vike-Freiberga laid emphasis on the special role and place of Ukraine in the world, its powerful natural and human resources, and beneficial geopolitical position. "It makes Ukraine a key element between the East and the West," she stated and expressed her wish to see Ukraine as a part of the European Union.
The Chairman of The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine stressed that Ukraine is a part of Europe, European culture and civilization by geographical, mental and political characteristics. "In the nearest time, Europe will set the trend for the whole world. It is a high-quality education, science and intellect, which is indispensable for every country in the 21st century no matter how much raw material the latter has," he declared.
However, he believes that "the European choice of Ukraine does not mean confrontation with Russia." Mr Lytvyn quoted Yaroslav the Wise that Kyiv "is looking in all four directions", stressing that "Ukraine should stay in its place." According to the Head of the Parliament, political circles must reach the consensus to ensure prevalence of the European choice among the public.
The Chairman of The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine underscored that "the European Union should demonstrate encouragement policy, drawing Ukraine into the European dimension." "Europe demands reforms; however, it is unwilling to fix the right of Ukraine to enter the EU in the Association Agreement," he stated.