Text B.

Problems of geopolitical and geo-economic orientation of Ukraine are of current importance. The enlargement of the European Union on 1 May 2004 has brought a historical shift for the Union and Ukraine in political, geographic and economic terms. The expansion of the European Union is a very important event not only for the new country-members but also for the countries which have got borders with the EU. In 2004 the European Neighborhood Policy (ENP) was developed, with the objective of avoiding the emergence of new dividing lines between the enlarged EU and the neighbors and, instead, strengthening the prosperity, stability and security of all. Within the ENP the EU offers its neighbors a privileged relationship, built upon a mutual commitment to common values (democracy and human rights, rule of law, good governance, market economy principles and sustainable development).

Now the EU and Ukraine share a border and, as direct neighbors, will reinforce their political and economic interdependence. Enlargement offers the opportunity for the EU and Ukraine to develop an increasingly close relationship, from co-operation to gradual economic integration and a deepening of political co-operation, increased mobility and more people-to-people contacts.

In fact, the process of integration began in the middle of the last decade of the 20^th century but the effectiveness of such development is not yet vividly seen.

Up to now the main hindrance to the development have been the EU requirements as to de-regulation of economy, predictability of Kiev policy, human rights and the freedom of press. After the Orange Revolution there existed some hope for the European aspirations of the country to be realized but with the shift of the political elite it hardly exists any longer.

Joining Ukraine to the EU has its opponents. They say that not everything is going to be so optimistic. Ukraine should pay attention to the experience of the " European Union newcomers". Some of these countries confessed that their admittance had been untimely, and the old country-members cannot share spheres of influence in the economic development.

It is desirable that Ukraine should consider all pros and cons and clearly see its position as an equal member of the European Union based on the deep comprehension of the national interests. In any case, the problems, which arise on " this way", should not be the reason for cancelling joining this organization. On the contrary they should stir up domestic social and economic transformations on the base of certain goals and tasks connected with international obligations of Ukraine.

The European Union and Ukraine are determined to work together and to promote stability, security and well-being.

Notes: governance - управління, провід