You're reading: Yanukovych: Decision to hold World Newspaper Congress in Kyiv a sign of Ukraine’s democratic development

Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych has welcomed the decision by the Executive Committee of the World Association of Newspapers and News Publishers to hold the 2012 World Newspaper Congress, World Editors Forum and Info Services Expo in Kyiv.

"The decision by the World Association of Newspapers and News Publishers to respond to the Ukrainian president’s invitation and hold the congress in Kyiv indicates that Ukraine is confidently walking the path of democratic reforms," reads a statement posted on the official Web site of the Ukrainian president.

Yanukovych expressed hope that journalists and news publishers from around the world would exchange their views and experience during the forum. The forum will help the Ukrainian media study the world’s best standards.

"The holding of this congress in Ukraine will promote the integration of Ukrainian and international media. And it will serve as another sign of Ukraine’s movement towards European values," reads the statement.