EP - Ukraine elections - new form of EU relations

Motions for resolutions - Results of Ukraine elections
B6-0038/2005, B6-0039/2005, B6-0041/2005, B6-0048/2005, B6-0049/2005, B6-0061/2005
Vote : 13.01.2005

MEPs welcomed the "substantially fair elections held on 26 December" in Ukraine, in a resolution adopted by 467 votes in favour, 19 against and 7 abstentions. They congratulated the Ukrainian people for resolving a political crisis and "setting their country firmly on the path towards democracy" in a non-violent and mature way. They said it was now time to consider other forms of association with Ukraine besides the Neighbourhood Policy, giving the country a clear European perspective, possibly leading to EU membership.

MEPs felt that the EU Neighbourhood Policy Action Plan for relations with Ukraine should be revised in order to help Ukraine in its political and economic reforms. During the debate in plenary, MEPs expressed disappointment over the Commission's lack of enthusiasm on this issue. They also advocated relaxing visa requirements for Ukraine, recognition of Ukraine's market economy and support for the country joining the World Trade Organisation. In order to support economic and administrative reforms, financial assistance to Ukraine should be increased considerably.

Parliament urged all sides in Ukraine to accept the election results and called for a speedy transfer of power. It urged the new Ukrainian political leadership to consolidate the espousal of common European values and objectives by taking further steps to promote democracy. MEPs were concerned about the deep divisions within Ukraine and called on all political leaders to make efforts to heal those rifts. Threats of separatism were deemed unacceptable.

Parliament stressed the role of the mediators in resolving the Ukrainian crisis, including the CFSP High Representative, the Presidents of Poland and Lithuania, and the missions of the European Parliament.

| Top |

• Speech by Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner on the EU and Ukraine: What lies beyond the horizon? (26/4/2005)
• EUHR Solana congratulates the President of Ukraine (11/1/2005)