PM Azarov explains why Cabinet suspends signature of association deal

KYIV, December 3 /Ukrinform/. Prime Minister Mykola Azarov has explained that the signing of the Association Agreement with the European Union had been suspended due to a significant reduction in trade with the Russian Federation, which, in turn, will seriously affect the economy of Ukraine.

He was speaking in the Verkhovna Rada on Tuesday.

"The decision to suspend the signature of the Association Agreement was made due to the fact that the situation in Ukraine is very difficult because of several factors ... In particular, due to a significant reduction in trade with the Russian Federation," Azarov said.

He explained that, in particular, it could halt many Ukrainian machine-building plants. "And we do not want people to be left without jobs. Therefore, we proposed to start negotiations with the EU and to think about what kind of assistance the European Union can provide, in particular, assistance in negotiations with the International Monetary Fund," Azarov said.

He also noted that it was not about some mythical millions, and it was about the price of "Ukraine's modernization, which we hope to implement with their investment," Azarov said.

He noted that the delay in the signing is a "forced pause".

The prime minister added that the Ukrainian side wants the format of negotiations with the European Union to be enlarged with Russia. And when the European Union considers the conditions put forward to Ukraine from the Russian Federation, it will be possible to find a common language. Once it happens, we will sign the Agreement," Azarov said.

АМ