EU to Tighten Ties with Ukraine


The European Union has declared that it regards Ukraine as a European country, clearly signalling its support for the ex-Soviet republic.

President Nicolas Sarkozy of France, who holds the rotating presidency of the EU, said it was the first time that the bloc had expressed itself so clearly about Ukraine's place in Europe.

"We are saying solemnly that Ukraine is a European country, which shares with EU countries a history and common values. This is the first time the EU has expressed itself so clearly on the European calling of Ukraine."

The EU has also agreed to talks to deepen ties with Ukraine by moving toward an association accord.