Statement of Commissioner for External Relations and European Neighbourhood Policy Benita Ferrero-Waldner on the conduct of parliamentary elections in Ukraine:

March 30, 2006.

    "I commend the people of Ukraine and their leaders on holding free and fair parliamentary elections. The democratic conduct of yesterday’s poll and of the pre-electoral campaign are further proof of the consolidation of democratic standards in Ukraine since the Orange revolution.
    With this step Ukraine has fulfilled a key political priority of the EU / Ukraine Action Plan under the European Neighbourhood Policy, opening new opportunities for Ukraine in its relationship with the EU.
    I trust that the government that will result from these elections will continue firmly on the path of reform. This is vital for the Ukrainian people as well as for the future of our relationship. "