Linkevičius noted that Ukraine was on the right path towards European reforms and it was hard to overlook the progress that had been made in the previous two years, so the international community needed to support the Ukrainian efforts, as well as help the country in every way. One of the most effective ways to provide support is to ensure a favorable ratification process of the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement, including a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area. The EU and Ukraine have provisionally applied the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (DCFTA) since 1 January 2016. For entry into force, the agreement requires ratification also by the Netherlands.
Lithuania’s Foreign Minister also said that it was important to grant visa-free travel for the citizens of Ukraine, which had fulfilled all the requirements for securing visa-free travel. “The people of Ukraine deserve a long-awaited visa-free travel to the EU. We have to take into consideration the fact that the country’s Government has fulfilled all the necessary criteria for visa liberalization and now we – the EU – must meet our obligations to Ukrainians,” said Lithuania’s Foreign Minister.
Linkevičius also noted the importance of the implementation of the Minsk agreements for peace in eastern Ukraine and stressed that the Russian Federation had a special responsibility in this process.
Parubiy thanked Lithuania for its consistent support for Ukraine, raising the issue concerning the annexation of Crimea with international organizations, providing children from eastern Ukraine with opportunities to study in Lithuania and treating wounded soldiers.
The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Parubiy is paying a working visit to Lithuania. In Vilnius, Parubiy met with the Speaker of the Seimas (Parliament), members of the Seimas, and the Prime Minister-designate.
On 12 December, Lithuania and Ukraine will mark the 25th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic relations. On this occasion, the Speaker of the Seimas and the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada opened a photo exhibition at the Seimas.
