Belarus, Ukraine have common interest in Eastern Partnership projects

GOMEL, May 6 (BelTA) – Belarus and Ukraine share the interest in taking part in Eastern Partnership projects, President of Ukraine Viktor Yushchenko told media in Gomel on May 6 after meeting with President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko. “We have very similar views in this area. Our countries are extremely interested in specific projects provided through the participation in this initiative. These projects can positively influence the economic status of our countries,” remarked Viktor Yushchenko. The head of Ukraine said that during the meeting with his Belarusian counterpart he had touched upon a large number of issues relating to the Belarusian-Ukrainian bilateral relations as well as the regional policy. The talks focused on methods of overcoming the world crisis together, remarked Viktor Yushchenko. He added the Prime Minister of Belarus is expected to visit Ukraine this month. During the visit the implementation of the agreements the two countries have secured at various levels will be worked out in detail. The meeting also thoroughly discussed energy matters and the liberalisation of the customs and trade regulations. In addition, the presidents considered urgent humanitarian issues as well as the life of the Belarusian and Ukrainian diasporas in the two countries. The heads of state discussed projects for opening new chairs of Belarusian and Ukrainian languages in universities of Ukraine and Belarus. The step will allow the Belarusian and Ukrainian national minorities to preserve their historic origin, culture and ethnic self-conscience. The presidents also discussed the erection of monuments to outstanding figures of Ukraine and Belarus in the two countries as well as the joint celebration of historic dates, which are important for the two brotherly nations. Belarus and Ukraine have no major problems in relations between the nations, stressed Viktor Yushchenko. The state of things has been built over the history and should be valued. The President of Ukraine thanked the Belarusian side for excellent reception.

БЕЛТА