You're reading: Azarov ties approval of same-sex marriage to visa-free travel in Europe

Ukrainian Premier Mykola Azarov said that Ukraine should allow same sex marriage and pass the equality act for sexual minorities to have a visa free regime with the European Union.

“Opposition leaders tell tales that if we sign the [association] agreement [with the EU] we’ll start traveling to Europe without visas next day. Nothing of the kind. We are to comply with the following conditions: we’re to allow same sex marriages and we’re to pass the equality act,” he said at a rally of supporters of the Party of Regions on the European Square in Kyiv on Saturday.

The premier said that Ukrainians are prepared for his. In addition, the church opposes such steps.

Azarov added that Ukraine is not ready for introducing biometric passports.