Denis Naughten
Question:43 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the upcoming EU-Ukraine Troika at foreign ministerial level on 30 March. [9996/04]
View answerWednesday, 31 March 2004
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Written answers
The EU-Troika with Ukraine has been postponed. At present we are actively seeking an alternative date.
When an new date has been arranged we anticipate that the troika discussion will be wide-ranging. Key issues to be addressed are: democratic and economic reform in Ukraine; internal developments in the EU; ensuring stability and security and meeting common challenges in the European continent; and strengthened co-operation between the EU and the Ukraine in the European neighbourhood.
The Presidency work plan for the Ukraine was adopted by GAERC at its meeting on 26 January. It highlights the importance of an action plan for the Ukraine under the European Neighbourhood Policy. Support for the Ukraine's integration into the European and world economy and the further enhancing of EU-Ukraine co-operation in the field of justice and home affairs are also important elements of the work plan.
The Troika meeting will offer both sides an opportunity to discuss the reform process in the Ukraine. The process is a fundamental element in the successful development of relations between the EU and Ukraine. A meeting will provide an opportunity for the Ukrainian side to update the EU on progress made in addressing the concerns highlighted by the Presidency in a declaration made on 18 March. We requested media freedom and democratic standards in the Ukraine. This would allow a fair presidential election to be held in the Ukraine in the autumn.