Statement of the Visegrad Group Ministers of Foreign Affairs on the situation in Ukraine

 

We express our unequivocal support for all forces in Ukraine seeking a peaceful, effective and durable solution to the present situation, based on respect of rule of law and territorial integrity of the country. We welcome the mediation efforts endorsed by the EU and the contribution of Presidents Kwasniewski and Adamkus, which had a crucial part in bringing the opposing political forces to the negotiating table. The process is still fragile therefore we consider that the EU should further facilitate the settlement by all available diplomatic means. We consider the EU-Russia cooperation as an important contribution to the settlement.

 

We wish to assure our Ukrainian neighbours of our solidarity with their struggle for the observance of democratic principles. We believe that only the true will of the Ukrainian people should determine the future of the country.

 

We express our readiness to share our unique experience gained within the consistent processes of transition that our countries underwent in the past period.

 

We will continue to work for permanent attention and support of the European Union as a whole for a prosperous and democratic Ukraine committed to Euro-Atlantic values.

 

Ukraine is not only a key neighbour and strategic partner of the European Union, but also a major player in regional and global security. We believe that a positive resolution of the crisis followed by a genuine democratization could create a basis for new quality in the EU–Ukraine relations. A democratic Ukraine, fulfilling its commitments and pursuing fundamental reforms, should be offered a long-term European perspective.