Ukraine says no to supranational structure within single economic environment

Ukraine objects to the formation of a supranational structure within the framework of the single economic space of Ukraine, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Belarus. "It is Ukraine's principled stance with regard not only to the SES", Ukrainian Foreign Minister Anatoli Zlenko said in an interview carried by the Ukrainian Den newspaper on Thursday.

Ukraine views the single economic space as an instrument for creating a framework for economic cooperation on the post-Soviet space, Zlenko said.

"The goal of our participation in this mechanism is an efficient free trade zone without exceptions and limitations," he stressed.

Zlenko was doubtful about the Ukrainian authorities giving a backing for the formation of a customs union within the SES and the introduction of a single currency by the participant countries. "It is clear that neither our legislature, nor the executive structures will make whatever concessions," the Ukrainian foreign minister said.

Simultaneously, Zlenko confirmed that Ukraine is, as before, for rapprochement with the Euro-Atlantic structures.

"Ukraine will be integrated into the SES as much as is compatible with its aspirations for integration into Europe," Zlenko stressed and added that the strengthening of the country's economy within the SES "will make Ukraine more attractive /for the EU/ and, at the same time, speed up implementation of its Euro-integration processes".

On Thursday, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov declared the possibility of setting up a supranational organ within the SES, to which the participant countries are to pass a part of their powers. "It is important that our countries agree to conduct a single foreign-economic and migration policy in the future. This means that, later on, they will agree to transfer a part of their powers to this organ", Kasyanov said.

Back in February 2003, the four presidents declared the formation of the single economic space. The agreement is to be signed in September 2003.