Chernivtsi – The leadership of Russia and Ukraine see no contradiction between the desire of both the countries to strengthen their ties with Europe and increasing cooperation within the CIS, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said.
“Our countries define the priorities of their policy towards Europe independently, but we share a common interest in building a united Europe without dividing lines, therefore we do not see a contradiction between our countries’ rapprochement with the European institutions and deepening multifaceted integration within the CIS, as these are two complementary directions of our activities,” Lavrov said before talks with his Ukrainian counterpart Leonid Kozhara.
The Russian foreign minister also noted the high level of contacts between Russia and Ukraine at different levels.
“At the beginning of last year we celebrated the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations and the 15th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Partnership. In July 2012, the fifth meeting of the Interstate Commission at the highest level was held, where the Declaration on the content of the strategic partnership was signed. We maintain regular political dialogue at all levels, from the highest level to the expert level,” Lavrov said.
He also noted that Ukraine was the leading trading partner for Russia in the CIS.
“A free trade area treaty opens new opportunities to expand our trade and economic cooperation,” Lavrov said.
He also noted the importance of continuing the joint Russian-Ukrainian efforts to facilitate the Transdniestrian conflict settlement.
