Ukraine has never been so close to the EU as it is now – Alexander Kwaśniewski

Ukraine is a hair’s breadth away from signing the Association Agreement with the European Union, but the country still needs to fulfil several conditions, which are requisite in the EU’s opinion, stated the President of Poland (1995 - 2005), and Chairman of the YES Board, Alexander Kwaśniewski on Saturday in Livadia Palace in Yalta, summarizing the results of the 10^th Annual Meeting of YES “Changing Ukraine in a Changing World: Factors of Success”.

Ukraine is a hair’s breadth away from signing the Association Agreement with the European Union, but the country still needs to fulfil several conditions, which are requisite in the EU’s opinion, stated the President of Poland (1995 - 2005), and Chairman of the YES Board, Alexander Kwaśniewski on Saturday in Livadia Palace in Yalta, summarizing the results of the 10^th Annual Meeting of YES “Changing Ukraine in a Changing World: Factors of Success”.

“Ukraine has never been as close to the EU as it is now. Now we are not speaking of a year, two years, a decade, until we sign an agreement, we are speaking of days, weeks. The Vilnius Summit will take place in less than two months and you will finally enjoy the opportunity to be associated with the European Union. This means that there are serious responsibilities with both parties – and they are very great”, said Mr. Kwaśniewski.

He reminded the audience of the conditions set by the European Union: the reform of justice (including the prosecutor’s office) and the election legislation reform.

“The conditions set by the EU should be met – have no doubt. Undoubtedly, you shouldn’t wait until the Germany election is over. Don’t wait for something new. Don’t wait for other moments or considerations.  The EU might not be the best organization in the world.  But it is absolutely pragmatic and serious.  And when we set the requirements they must be met”, Mr. Kwaśniewski emphasised.