Related Event: Ukraine's Political Crisis

Ukraine's new President Viktor Yushchenko has emphasized he intended to see his country join the European Union.

Yushchenko told the parliamentary assembly of the Council of Europe that Ukraine's strategic aim and vision is membership in the European Union.

However, the European Union's external relations commissioner, Benita Ferrero-Waldner, rejected calls that Ukraine be offered an association accord that is seen as a precondition to eventual accession.

She said the EU is not disposed to do that for now, but added that more minor cooperation agreements dealing with trade, investment and visa restrictions will be put forward next week.

(Photo Source: AFP)