Volodymyr Lytvyn: Ukraine highly appreciates the Role of Germany as a Catalyst of Reconciliation and Reforms in Europe
12 October 2011, 18:25
Volodymyr Lytvyn: Ukraine highly appreciates the Role of Germany as a Catalyst of Reconciliation and Reforms in Europe
On Wednesday,
Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Volodymyr Lytvyn met the delegates of
the German-Ukrainian Group on the Interparliamentary Liaison of the Bundestag
of the Federal Republic of Germany.
The participants of the meeting discussed a range of important issues concerning intensification of the bilateral political dialogue between Ukraine and Germany, and further development of partnership.
The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine appreciated restoration of political dialogue between the speakers after a long break, and sent sincere greetings to the President of the German Bundestag Norbert Lammert, whom he expects to meet during the official visit of the German parliamentary delegation next year. He stressed that the visit of the German-Ukrainian Group on the Interparliamentary Liaison is a significant contribution to the development of inter-parliamentary cooperation.
V. Lytvyn stated that the visit is a favourable opportunity to discuss the current state and prospects of Ukrainian-German cooperation. The head of the Ukrainian parliament believes that active work of the inter-parliamentary groups of friendship and strengthening of contacts between the parliamentary committees will boost inter-state cooperation.
According to V. Lytvyn, Ukrainian-German cooperation is critical in the light of European integration of Ukraine. He hopes for further support and practical assistance in the harmonization of Ukrainian laws with the European law. The head of the Ukrainian parliament stressed that "Ukraine made its political choice European one, which enjoys public support." "We want Europe to be integral and predictable," he added.
Focusing on the
inter-parliamentary relations, the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine
reminded his German colleagues that Ukrainian parliament legalized stay of
certain categories of foreign citizens, including representatives of German
political funds, teachers of the German Academic Exchange Service, and other
experts, having adopted a new version of the law "On the Legal Status of
Foreigners and Stateless Persons." These amendments will let the said
categories of people receive the temporary residence cards without prior
receipt of employment permits.
V. Lytvyn thanked the deputies of the German Bundestag for consistent support of European integration pursuit of Ukraine. He also hopes for their support during the forthcoming ratification of the agreement in the Bundestag. "I am grateful for understanding of Ukrainian problems, compassion, and assistance in realization of European perspectives for Ukraine," he said.