Corruption Hindering Ukraine-EU Integration
Carl Bildt, Foreign Minister of Sweden | August 9, 2011
Ukraine possesses massive agricultural and manufacturing potential, and Europe should support Kiev’s movement toward the EU. ++ But the trial of former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko, an opponent of President Viktor Yanukovich, is a corrupt political sideshow threatening to derail efforts at reform. ++ An EU association agreement with Ukraine would be both a model for the region and a counterbalance to Russian influence, but the transparent rule of law is “a precondition” for substantial economic integration with the EU.
