Relations with Russia, EU not seen in 'either - or' context - Yatsenyuk
KYIV. March 18 (Interfax) - The signing of the economic part of the association agreement between Ukraine and the European Union has been out off to avoid negative consequences for the eastern industrial regions, said Ukraine's interim prime minister, Arseniy Yatsenyuk.
"The political part of the association agreement with the European Union is to be signed in Brussels on March 21. We have put off the signing of the economic part of this agreement so far, given fears the free trade zone with the EU might negatively impact the industrial regions, first of all in the east of the country. We are going to hold additional consultations on this issue," he said in an address to the population of Ukraine's southern and eastern regions.
"In the meantime, the European Union has made the decision to open its markets unilaterally for Ukrainian goods, which will benefit our economy," he said.
"We don't see ties between the EU and Russia in an 'either - or' context. Despite a catastrophic crunch in relations with Russia through no fault of ours and despite Russia's armed aggression against Ukraine, I will do all I can to save peace, and also to build truly partnership and good neighborly relations with Russia," he said.
Yatsenyuk also said that, "exclusively for the sake of maintaining Ukraine's unity the country's accession to NATO is not on the agenda. Ukraine will be defended by strong and modern Ukrainian armed forces," he said.
"While agreeing or disagreeing with what I'm saying, you have an unique opportunity to speak your mind on all disputable issues, including on your attitude to the new authorities, during the next presidential elections to be held on May 25 2014. I'm sure you will find worthy candidates whose programs will have ideas of special interest to you," Yatsenyuk said.
