President urges investigation of resonant criminal cases

President Victor Yushchenko held a meeting with leadership of law enforcement agencies - the Prosecutor General Oleksandr Medvedko, Chairman of the Security Service Valentyn Nalyvaichenko and Minister of Internal Affairs Yuriy Lutsenko.

At the beginning of the meeting the President stressed that he would like to hear reports from the representatives of law enforcement bodies on the topics that have today the most resonance in the. "Obviously, we are talking about international public opinion too", said Victor Yushchenko, noting that primarily he means the case of Georgiy Gongadze. The President expressed assurance that today thanks to the work of the SBU the Attorney General's Office has a witness who provides information that would allow "to end this story shameful Ukraine".

Another case demanding urgent investigation Victor Yushchenko called the murder of Valeriy Oliynyk and detention of former deputy Viktor Lozynski. "This man should be arrested and submitted to the Attorney General's Office to provide evidence", said Victor Yushchenko and called on the Minister of Internal Affairs to urgently arrest Lozynski if the Minister has any information on the criminal's whereabouts.

Also President Yushchenko drew attention of those present to the case of death of a teenager at the Lviv region lake. Unfortunately, noted Victor Yushchenko, one of the suspects in the case is a high rank policeman. He urged the law enforcement bodies' leadership to conduct an objective investigation of the case. "I am concerned about the efficiency because there are people who make politics out of these situations, try to raise their ratings and conduct PR-campaigns" - said Victor Yushchenko.

Ukraine concerned by slow negotiations on Eastern Partnership - Andrii Goncharuk

President Victor Yushchenko is concerned about slowing negotiations with the European Commission on filling the Eastern Partnership foreign policy initiative of the European Union with practical content said Deputy Chief of Staff Andrii Goncharuk at his briefing today.

Victor Yushchenko is convinced that the initiative should focus not only on projects but also on new mechanisms that would facilitate the real integration between partner countries and the European Union.

"The President believes that the Eastern Partnership should develop the old mechanisms of cooperation that exist between the EU and partner countries. Instead, the future projects of this initiative should be innovative and make positive influence on such areas as institutional development, regional development, development of an integrated border management system, deepening energy cooperation, etc", said A. Goncharuk.

He expressed confidence that the prompt resolution by the EU of all the procedural issues concerning the elaboration and approval of projects lies in the interests of both the EU and the states parties to the initiative. Andrii Goncharuk mentioned that the Eastern Partnership has a number of conceptual and practical principles, which fully meet the vision of the President on the prospects of deepening European integration and country gaining full membership in the EU.

 

President praises the results of the third round of consultations with the European Commission - Bohdan Sokolovsky

President Victor Yushchenko praises the results of the third (final) round of consultations with the European Commission the President's Representative on International Energy Security Bogdan Sokolovsky said at his briefing.

He stressed that the success achieved largely due to the fact that the Government and ‘Naftogaz of Ukraine' supported the President's suggestions on urgent steps on financial recovery of ‘Naftogaz of Ukraine', which had been prepared by the interdepartmental group headed by the First Deputy Chief of Staff Oleksandr Shlapak.

"We have seen another proof that the consolidated position of state authorities fruits in success", Bohdan Sokolovsky said.

He said that given the positive results of the consultations with the EC, the President calls on the Government and "Naftogaz of Ukraine" leadership to make practical steps for speedy implementation of the agreements with the European Commission and international financial institutions to obtain loans to purchase gas for storage in the underground storage on favorable terms and in a transparent way.

Unfortunately, said Bogdan Sokolovsky, the Government wasted a lot of time. Indeed, back in January this year the President requested the Government to formulate and adopt realistic financial plan for NJSC ‘Naftogaz of Ukraine' in the view of risks created by the new gas contracts signed by Ukraine and Russia on January 19, 2009.

"The negotiations with the European Commission and the Russian Federation on payments for gas intended for storage should have been started immediately so that they could be concluded before the season of pumping gas into the underground storages that starts in May.

The Government, he said, unfortunately ignored the President's request.

Instead, protracting in every way the negotiations with Europe, the Cabinet has started secret negotiations to obtain dubious foreign borrowings, including those from offshore companies such as Cyprus ‘Troika Dialogue', said Bogdan Sokolovsky.

In current difficult situation the Government initiates the increase in gas prices for all Ukrainian consumers without adequate provision of fair social protection.

"In this situation, the President of Ukraine requests the Government to urgently strengthen the social protection of poor parts of the population through enhancing the level and transparency of the targeted support aimed at compensation of gas prices growth", summed up Bohdan Sokolovsky.

This position of the President is fully supported by the European Commission and international financial institutions.

Also Victor Yushchenko considers unacceptable the causeless indebting of Ukraine, especially through shady schemes. In this view he has addressed the Attorney General with the request to take measures to avoid attracting economically unreasonable loans that harm national interests of Ukraine and violate the law.

 

Ukraine expects openness in discussion about unification of Orthodox confessions - President

"The aim of our dialogue is to talk confidentially openly and honestly about the things that are sensitive in the religious life in Ukraine. We talked about one of the problems of the Ukrainian church - the Orthodox separation that exists", said Victor Yushchenko in his statement for the press.

"The greatest desire of the Ukrainian people is to live in a united Church", he said adding that the road towards that is no easy but expressed confidence in its success.

"We would like to see understanding from our spiritual leaders in the process. Many times we have returned to the discussion regarding the unification in the church, to dialogue between churches as a sway of solving one of the biggest problems in Ukrainian Orthodoxy", said the President.

Victor Yushchenko stressed that the situation impacts social stability and spiritual unity in Ukraine as a whole. "It's hard to talk about stability, national sovereignty, when there is no understanding between the leading Orthodox confessions", he said.

The President thanked the Patriarch of Moscow and All Rus for understanding and openness when considering the issue.

President Yushchenko, Patriarch Cyril I honor memory of Holodomor victims

President Victor Yushchenko and Patriarch of Moscow and all Rus Cyril I put flowers to the Memorial to Holodomor victims in Kyiv.

Speaking at the event Victor Yushchenko thanked Patriarch Cyril I for this step. "I have always emphasized that the tragedy of 1932-1933 is not the fault of Russia or Russian people. Today we should express solidarity regarding victims of the Great Famine. This is our Orthodox duty. We highly appreciate that you, Your Holiness, here at this holy place have paid tribute to the victims of the Holodomor of 1932-1933", said the President.

The Patriarch of Moscow and All Rus from his part stressed that "it is natural that now we pray for innocent victims, remember those who died, and for that to never repeat again".

 

President Yushchenko, Patriarch Cyril I lay wreaths to the Unknown Soldier's Tomb

President Victor Yushchenko and Patriarch of Moscow and all Rus Cyril I laid wreaths near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Kyiv.

 

President condoles with people of Croatia

President Victor Yushchenko offered condolences to the President of Croatia Stjepan Mesic on the occasion of train crash that occurred on the line between Zagreb and the coastal city of Split and resulted in casualties.

 

President Yushchenko meets Patriarch Cyril I

President Victor Yushchenko met with Patriarch of Moscow and All Rus Cyril I.

Opening the meeting President Yushchenko greeted Patriarch Cyril I with his spiritual pastoral visit to Ukraine. He expressed hope for continued dialogue regarding the development of Orthodoxy in Ukraine, which the Ukrainian side appreciates.

According to Victor Yushchenko the Orthodoxy in Ukraine has favorable conditions for development and restoration of cathedrals, churches and other religious buildings, which has recently been going on actively proves that. The President expressed belief that government policy on the church is correct, although the Ukrainian Orthodoxy faces some problems, particularly the existence of four Orthodox confessions.

In Victor Yushchenko's opinion the problem is immanent not only to Ukraine and Ukrainian Orthodoxy and Ukraine just had inherited it. The President announced that this issue, which lowers the potential of Orthodoxy in Ukraine, will be discussed during his meeting with Patriarch Cyril I.

From his part the Patriarch of Moscow and All Rus thanked for the invitation to visit Ukraine, which he received from the Metropolitan of Kiev and All Ukraine Vladimir. Pointing to the historical role of Kyiv in the development of Orthodoxy, he said that the capital of Ukraine is "our Jerusalem and Constantinople simultaneously". Therefore his pastoral visit to Ukraine, he said, he also considers the mission of pilgrimage.

The Patriarch of Moscow and All Rus also stressed that has been conducting dialogue on the religious situation in Ukraine with the President of Ukraine for a long time now and plans to discuss a number of issues with him during today's meeting.

Following their bilateral meeting the President of Ukraine and the Patriarch of Moscow and All Rus exchanged gifts. President Yushchenko presented to Patriarch Cyril I the Poltava style vyshyvanka, the embroidered rushnyk by famous Ukrainian artist Olexandra Telizhenko and the set of collectible coins from the "Monuments of the ancient cultures of Ukraine" series.

In response, Patriarch Cyril I gave to President Yushchenko the icon "The akeropita image of Jesus Christ" and the certificate for full collection of works and letters of Nikolai Gogol in 17 volumes, which will be published with the blessing of The Patriarch of Moscow. The set of books will be published within the framework of Ukrainian-Russian project in late 2009 by the publishing house of Moscow Patriarchate.

Visit of Patriarch of Moscow and All Rus Cyril I to Ukraine

From 27 July to August 5, 2009 Patriarch of Moscow and All Rus Cyril I will be visiting Ukraine.

On the first day of the visit, July 27, Patriarch Cyril I is scheduled to meet Ukrainian President Victor Yushchenko and members of Holy Synod of the Russian Orthodox Church.

After the meeting President Victor Yushchenko and Patriarch Cyril I will lay wreaths to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Kyiv and place candles near the Memorial to victims of the Holodomor 1932 -1933 in Ukraine.

Judges swearing in ceremony

On July 10 at 10.00 President Yushchenko will take part in a ceremony of swearing in the new judges.

President swears in new judges

President Victor Yushchenko took part in a ceremony of swearing in the newly appointed judges.

President holds consultative meeting on natural preserves development

In Hayivka village, Volyn region President Victor Yushchenko held a consultative meeting on the development of natural preserves.

The agenda for the meeting included such topics as:

• Current situation in natural preserves economy;
• Protection of the area of preserves and monitoring of regime observation.
• Observation of environmental legislation;
• Implementation of Presidential Decrees on development of natural preserves and parks;
• Scientific sesearch at the preserves;
• Provision of state legal acts on land to the preserves.

 

President gives keys to new houses to 7 families with many children

In Karpylivka village, Volyn region President Victor Yushchenko handed over the keys to the new houses to seven large families. The act was arranged within the framework of ‘Warm a child with love' charity program.

 

President slams draft bills on presidential election, referendum

President Victor Yushchenko considers alteration of the law on presidential election in a way it was proposed today dangerous for democracy in our country and transparency of the election, he said at the press conference in Rivne.

Speaking about particular problems in the suggested wording of the law President Yushchenko said that giving preference to political parties represented in the parliament when appointing electoral commissions is wrong and "proves that the two political parties continue their efforts aimed at making any non-party -problem, such as presidential elections, the party's", - said Victor Yushchenko.

Another remark the President made was about the suggested court order support at all stages of elections. In his opinion the suggested procedures do not meet current legislation.

Speaking about the suggested draft law on referendums Victor Yushchenko pointed to the fact that some questions the law makes a subject of referendum actually according to the Constitution cannot be made such and added that the Constitutional Court has already provided its decision on the issue.

Also Victor Yushchenko named a big legal mistake the article obliging the President of Ukraine to appoint a referendum in 7 days after more than 3 million signatures were collected.

Beside that Victor Yushchenko criticized the suggested order of approving the results of a referendum saying that referendum results are of direct action and do not require approval.

"I insist upon only one thing: the law on presidential elections and the law on referendums must ensure democratic development, precise execution of the Constitution and legislation on one hand, and introduction of democratic procedures, rather than abandoning them and re-shaping the procedure of election and referendum itself in accordance with the vision of two political forces on the other", - said Victor Yushchenko.

In Rivne President opens living block for young families

In Rivne President Victor Yushchenko took part in an opening of the newly constructed living block for young families.

At the event President Yushchenko stressed that currently there are about 700 uncompleted living blocks that could provide 7 to 8 thousand apartments. "With my presence at this ceremony I would like to demonstrate that such programs as this, which are 50 to 50 covered from the central and local budgets, represent good response when financial capabilities are limited but through completing the unfinished blocks we are able to provide hundreds of families with home", said the President. "I am grateful to all those, who contributed to the project", added Victor Yushchenko, pointing to the efforts of local authorities and builders.

Visit to Sumy region

On July 11 President Yushchenko willgo with a working visit to Sumy region.

Working visit to Rivne and Volyn region

On July 9 President Yushchenko will make working visits to Rivne and Volyn region.

President writes letters to PM, PG

President Victor Yushchenko has requested the Cabinet to ensure full implementation of the law of Ukraine "On the recreation for children", which came into force on January 1, 2009, and requested the Prosecutor General to ensure that the Government implements the law.

President takes part in Ukrainian-Austrian business forum

Ukraine and Austria have strong potential for further active cooperation stressed Victor Yushchenko at the Ukrainian-Austrian business forum in Kyiv.

According to him particularly promising areas of cooperation are high-tech, rocket and aircraft building, heavy machinery industry, agriculture, etc.

As separate promising area for Ukrainian-Austrian business cooperation President Yushchenko named projects within the framework of preparation to Euro 2012.

Presidents of Ukraine, Austria honor Holodomor victims' memory

Ukrainian President Victor Yushchenko and Austrian Federal President Heinz Fischer honored the memory of those lost in the Holodomor 1932-33 by putting candles and flowers to the Memorial to Victims of the Great Famine and observing a minute of silence.

Ukraine honestly fulfills its obligations as a transit country - President Yushchenko

Ukraine honestly fulfills its obligations as a transit country of energy resources said Victor Yushchenko at today's joint press conference with Austrian Federal President Heinz Fischer.

Speaking of the issues, Ukraine faces in provision of Russian gas transit to Europe, the President stressed that they are due to violation of a number of principles in gas agreements of January. "We have asked the European Commission to consider again the principles of forming transit policy, from the symmetric obligations to transit guarantees, volumes guarantees and to transit fees", said Victor Yushchenko.

According to the President main problem today is pumping gas into underground storages. "We appeal to the European Commission and to Sweden, which currently presides over the EU, to consider this question ... on payment and volumes. Without the consumers, Ukrainian side alone is unable to provide answers to the question. We all sides of the dialogue to solve this issue", said Victor Yushchenko.

Ukrainian-Austrian talks begin

Headed by President Victor Yushchenko and Federal President of Austria Heinz Fischer, Ukrainian-Austrian talks took place in Horodetsky House, Kyiv.

"We value our joint achievements in bilateral relations, economic and trade ties, whish we have made in recent years ", said Victor Yushchenko opening the talks.

He particularly pointed to good documentary framework, which now allows Ukrainian and Austrian business to develop trade and economic relations, particularly in investment. "To enhance our trade, economic and business relations it is very important to keep a close dialogue at high level", he said.

 

President Yushchenko, President Fischer hold bilateral meeting

President Victor Yushchenko and Federal President of Austria Heinz Fischer held bilateral meeting.

During the conversation the sides affirmed importance of strengthening international contacts between Ukraine and Austria at top level and deepening political dialogue. Besides, Victor Yushchenko said that Ukrainian side greatly appreciates Austria's support of our country's European.

Parties also raised the issue of liberalization of visa regulations between Ukraine and the EU.

Victor Yushchenko thanked Austrian side for active support of Ukraine's initiative regarding international recognition of the Holodomor 1932-33 within the framework of the UN, UNESCO, the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and European Parliament.

Victor Yushchenko welcomes Heinz Fischer in Ukraine

In Kiev President Victor Yushchenko has officially welcomed the Federal President of Austria Heinz Fischer, who had come yesterday to our country with three-day official visit. The ceremony took place in front of Presidential Secretariat building.

Lozinsky case proves inefficiency of law enforcement in Ukraine - President

The investigation of Kirovohrad region murder with main suspect Viktor Lozinsky shown inefficiency of law enforcement bodies said President Victor Yushchenko at the meeting of General Prosecutor's Office collegium.

He repeated that Kirovohrad region government and leadership of law enforcement bodies must understand their responsibility and resign. "Blood on these people's hands is due to your professional inactivity. This is your subordinate [District Attorney], you had hired and were obliged to watch effectiveness of his work", said the President.

The President also expressed conviction that it is impossible that the officials did not know about the behavior of MP Lozinsky in the region. "There is impunity in your system. Hasn't the Prosecutor's Office known how many people Lozinsky threatened to murder? Just look at how many witnesses testified in the case. Hasn't Motsnyy seen this?" said Victor Yushchenko.

The murder in Kirovohrad region Victor Yushchenko called an example of serious problems in the political and law enforcement system. He criticized the fact that simple citizen is unable to get protection from law enforcement bodies. "Most of the staffing decisions in the police and prosecutors' offices are ineffective. Many people get a job there just by a coincidence, because for many it became the protective umbrella and for the rest a source of shadow earnings", said Victor Yushchenko.

He called upon Oleksandr Medvedko and high officials in law enforcement bodies to have enough courage to make necessary personnel changes especially in areas where they are long overdue. "We must cleanse the ranks of law enforcement bodies", said Victor Yushchenko.

President takes part in a sitting of the collegiums of the General Prosecutor's Office

President Victor Yushchenko took part in a sitting of the collegiums of the General Prosecutor's Office. The participants of the meeting that was held in accordance with President's instruction of June 4 were Prosecutor General Oleksandr Medvedko, Security Service Head Valentyn Nalyvaychenko, State Border Guards Head Mykola Lytvyn, State Customs Service Head Anatoly Makarenko, acting Chairman of the National Bank Anatoliy Shapoval, deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Financial Monitoring Yaroslav Yanushevych, Agrarian Policy Minister Yuriy Melnyk, heads of regional offices of the Security Service and Prosecutor Offices, Chief of Staff Vira Ulyanchenko, Deputy Chief of Staff Marina Stavniychuk.

At the meeting sides have discussed observation of customs legislation and fighting smuggling, observation of legislation in banking sector and fighting money laundering, etc.

Speaking about the violations of customs rules, to which General Prosecutor's Office should react more effectively, President Yushchenko gave the example when State Reserve Committee paid 1.5 billion of budget funds for the imported pork, beef and chicken, which were put for sale rather than used for state reserves as the legislation demands it. In addition to that 90% of the beef and 25% of the chicken meat was.

The President also noted that the practice of understatement of customs value of goods imported to Ukraine continues and sometimes reaches the point of absurdity. For example, almost 48 thousand metal doors were brought in and cleared by the declared price of 1 dollar per piece through the Kryvbas checkpoint of Kryvyi Rih Customs Office. "It is nonsense that State Customs Service proposes to award the Head of this Customs Office with "Honorary Economist of Ukraine", said the President.

According to him the cases when ordinary customs inspectors receive 300 thousand to 1.7 million dollars in bribes are numerous.

Proceeding to the subject observation of legislation in banking sector President Yushchenko named such problems as giving loans to legal entities and the population and rapid growth of credit debt (exceeds 36 billion hryvnyas as on 01.06.09).

He also pointed to the critical decline in solvency of many banks and delays in payments. In Victor Yushchenko's opinion this situation together with the amount of unreturned VAT and taxes collected in advance can lead to crisis in the economy. "There are violations of law in each of these fields. Why is VAT being paid back only to members of one political party? Why were the taxes collected in advance?" said the President.

He also added that there are still cases when bank's clients are unable to get their money back despite the fact that there are no objective causes for that and the banking system can work as a clock.

President takes part in a sitting of the collegiums of the General Prosecutor's Office

President Victor Yushchenko took part in a sitting of the collegiums of the General Prosecutor's Office. The participants of the meeting that was held in accordance with President's instruction of June 4 were Prosecutor General Oleksandr Medvedko, Security Service Head Valentyn Nalyvaychenko, State Border Guards Head Mykola Lytvyn, State Customs Service Head Anatoly Makarenko, acting Chairman of the National Bank Anatoliy Shapoval, deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Financial Monitoring Yaroslav Yanushevych, Agrarian Policy Minister Yuriy Melnyk, heads of regional offices of the Security Service and Prosecutor Offices, Chief of Staff Vira Ulyanchenko, Deputy Chief of Staff Marina Stavniychuk.

At the meeting sides have discussed observation of customs legislation and fighting smuggling, observation of legislation in banking sector and fighting money laundering, etc.

Speaking about the violations of customs rules, to which General Prosecutor's Office should react more effectively, President Yushchenko gave the example when State Reserve Committee paid 1.5 billion of budget funds for the imported pork, beef and chicken, which were put for sale rather than used for state reserves as the legislation demands it. In addition to that 90% of the beef and 25% of the chicken meat was.

The President also noted that the practice of understatement of customs value of goods imported to Ukraine continues and sometimes reaches the point of absurdity. For example, almost 48 thousand metal doors were brought in and cleared by the declared price of 1 dollar per piece through the Kryvbas checkpoint of Kryvyi Rih Customs Office. "It is nonsense that State Customs Service proposes to award the Head of this Customs Office with "Honorary Economist of Ukraine", said the President.

According to him the cases when ordinary customs inspectors receive 300 thousand to 1.7 million dollars in bribes are numerous.

Proceeding to the subject observation of legislation in banking sector President Yushchenko named such problems as giving loans to legal entities and the population and rapid growth of credit debt (exceeds 36 billion hryvnyas as on 01.06.09).

He also pointed to the critical decline in solvency of many banks and delays in payments. In Victor Yushchenko's opinion this situation together with the amount of unreturned VAT and taxes collected in advance can lead to crisis in the economy. "There are violations of law in each of these fields. Why is VAT being paid back only to members of one political party? Why were the taxes collected in advance?" said the President.

He also added that there are still cases when bank's clients are unable to get their money back despite the fact that there are no objective causes for that and the banking system can work as a clock.

President takes part in a sitting of the collegiums of the General Prosecutor's Office

President Victor Yushchenko took part in a sitting of the collegiums of the General Prosecutor's Office. The participants of the meeting that was held in accordance with President's instruction of June 4 were Prosecutor General Oleksandr Medvedko, Security Service Head Valentyn Nalyvaychenko, State Border Guards Head Mykola Lytvyn, State Customs Service Head Anatoly Makarenko, acting Chairman of the National Bank Anatoliy Shapoval, deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Financial Monitoring Yaroslav Yanushevych, Agrarian Policy Minister Yuriy Melnyk, heads of regional offices of the Security Service and Prosecutor Offices, Chief of Staff Vira Ulyanchenko, Deputy Chief of Staff Marina Stavniychuk.

At the meeting sides have discussed observation of customs legislation and fighting smuggling, observation of legislation in banking sector and fighting money laundering, etc.

Speaking about the violations of customs rules, to which General Prosecutor's Office should react more effectively, President Yushchenko gave the example when State Reserve Committee paid 1.5 billion of budget funds for the imported pork, beef and chicken, which were put for sale rather than used for state reserves as the legislation demands it. In addition to that 90% of the beef and 25% of the chicken meat was.

The President also noted that the practice of understatement of customs value of goods imported to Ukraine continues and sometimes reaches the point of absurdity. For example, almost 48 thousand metal doors were brought in and cleared by the declared price of 1 dollar per piece through the Kryvbas checkpoint of Kryvyi Rih Customs Office. "It is nonsense that State Customs Service proposes to award the Head of this Customs Office with "Honorary Economist of Ukraine", said the President.

According to him the cases when ordinary customs inspectors receive 300 thousand to 1.7 million dollars in bribes are numerous.

Proceeding to the subject observation of legislation in banking sector President Yushchenko named such problems as giving loans to legal entities and the population and rapid growth of credit debt (exceeds 36 billion hryvnyas as on 01.06.09).

He also pointed to the critical decline in solvency of many banks and delays in payments. In Victor Yushchenko's opinion this situation together with the amount of unreturned VAT and taxes collected in advance can lead to crisis in the economy. "There are violations of law in each of these fields. Why is VAT being paid back only to members of one political party? Why were the taxes collected in advance?" said the President.

He also added that there are still cases when bank's clients are unable to get their money back despite the fact that there are no objective causes for that and the banking system can work as a clock.

President takes part in a sitting of the collegiums of the General Prosecutor's Office

President Victor Yushchenko took part in a sitting of the collegiums of the General Prosecutor's Office. The participants of the meeting that was held in accordance with President's instruction of June 4 were Prosecutor General Oleksandr Medvedko, Security Service Head Valentyn Nalyvaychenko, State Border Guards Head Mykola Lytvyn, State Customs Service Head Anatoly Makarenko, acting Chairman of the National Bank Anatoliy Shapoval, deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Financial Monitoring Yaroslav Yanushevych, Agrarian Policy Minister Yuriy Melnyk, heads of regional offices of the Security Service and Prosecutor Offices, Chief of Staff Vira Ulyanchenko, Deputy Chief of Staff Marina Stavniychuk.

At the meeting sides have discussed observation of customs legislation and fighting smuggling, observation of legislation in banking sector and fighting money laundering, etc.

Speaking about the violations of customs rules, to which General Prosecutor's Office should react more effectively, President Yushchenko gave the example when State Reserve Committee paid 1.5 billion of budget funds for the imported pork, beef and chicken, which were put for sale rather than used for state reserves as the legislation demands it. In addition to that 90% of the beef and 25% of the chicken meat was.

The President also noted that the practice of understatement of customs value of goods imported to Ukraine continues and sometimes reaches the point of absurdity. For example, almost 48 thousand metal doors were brought in and cleared by the declared price of 1 dollar per piece through the Kryvbas checkpoint of Kryvyi Rih Customs Office. "It is nonsense that State Customs Service proposes to award the Head of this Customs Office with "Honorary Economist of Ukraine", said the President.

According to him the cases when ordinary customs inspectors receive 300 thousand to 1.7 million dollars in bribes are numerous.

Proceeding to the subject observation of legislation in banking sector President Yushchenko named such problems as giving loans to legal entities and the population and rapid growth of credit debt (exceeds 36 billion hryvnyas as on 01.06.09).

He also pointed to the critical decline in solvency of many banks and delays in payments. In Victor Yushchenko's opinion this situation together with the amount of unreturned VAT and taxes collected in advance can lead to crisis in the economy. "There are violations of law in each of these fields. Why is VAT being paid back only to members of one political party? Why were the taxes collected in advance?" said the President.

He also added that there are still cases when bank's clients are unable to get their money back despite the fact that there are no objective causes for that and the banking system can work as a clock.

Meeting with the Federal President of Austria

On July 7 President Yushchenko will welcome the Federal President of Austria Heinz Fischer in Ukraine who comes to our country with the 3-day official visit.

Meeting of General Prosecutor's Office Collegium

On July 7 at 8.30 President Yushchenko will take part in a sitting of the Collegium of the General Prosecutor's Office.

President grieves over B. Kotorovych's death

President Victor Yushchenko offered condolences to relatives, friends and students of Ukrainian people's artist Bohdan Kotorovych on the occasion of his death.

President Yushchenko holds phone talks with President Nazarbayev

President Victor Yushchenko held phone conversation with the President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev.

President Yushchenko congratulated his Kazakhstani colleague on his birthday, wished him good health, happiness and success in work.

The President of Ukraine repeated his invitation to President Nazarbayev to visit Ukraine with an official visit.

The Presidents also discussed bilateral relations between the states, particularly trade-economic cooperation and signature of the Ukraine - Kazakhstan Roadmap for 2009-2010, etc.

President visits reconstructed palace of Grand Duchy of Lithuania rulers

President Victor Yushchenko along with heads of foreign delegations that came to the celebration of the Millennium of Lithuania visited the reconstructed palace of Grand Duchy of Lithuania rulers at the Cathedral square in Vilnius.

Also the guests were shown an exhibition at the Museum of Applied Arts.

President congratulates Lithuania on its 1000th anniversary

President Victor Yushchenko took part in the ceremony of opening of the monument to the Millennium of Lithuania.

"Together we are building a common space of democracy, security and prosperity, the connection between Baltic and Black Sea that is growing stronger. In this process Lithuania is one of the recognized leaders", - said Victor Yushchenko in his congratulation speech.

President Yushchenko meets President-elect Grybauskaite

In Vilnius, President Victor Yushchenko met with the President-elect of Lithuania Dalia Grybauskaite (will assume presidential duties on 12 July 2009).

At the meeting President Yushchenko congratulated President-elect Grybauskaite on winning the election and stressed that Ukraine gives much importance to its relations with Lithuania.

Then sides have discussed implementation of Ukrainian-Lithuanian Relations' Roadmap for 2009-2010, European and Euro-Atlantic integration of Ukraine, visa regulations between the states, energy cooperation, particularly Euro-Asian Oil Transport Corridor project, etc.

Also Victor Yushchenko invited Dalia Grybauskaite to make a visit to Ukraine and sign a number of bilateral documents aimed at deepening cooperation between Ukraine and Lithuania.

Working visit to Lithuania

On July 6 President Yushchenko will make a working visit to Lithuania

President takes part in celebration of the Millenium of Lithuania

President Victor Yushchenko takes part in celebration the Millennium of Lithuania, taking place today in the capital of Lithuania Vilnius.

The celebration has begun with the ceremony of flying Lithuanian flag on the square of S. Daukanto and the address of the President of Lithuania Valdas Adamkus.

Among other guests at the ceremony were Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, King Harald V of Norway, King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia of Sweden, President of Iceland Olafur Ragnar Grimsson, Latvian President Valdis Zatlers, President of Georgia Mikhail Saakashvili, President of Finland Tarja Halonen, legate of Pope Benedict XVI Angelo Sodano, Prime Minister of Estonia Andrus Ansip, other guests.

 

President goes to Lithuania

President Victor Yushchenko went to Lithuania with a working visit to take part in celebration of
1,000 Years of Lithuania.

President condoles with relatives of Vasyl Chervoniy

President Victor Yushchenko offered condolences to family and friends of former state deputy and ex-governor of Rivne region Vasyl Chervoniy, who died on July 4.

President takes part in celebration of Ukrainian Fleet Day

In Sevastopol President Yushchenko took part in celebration of Ukrainian Naval Forces, Sea and River Fleet Day.

Within the framework of the event President Yushchenko visited the alignment of naval ships of Ukrainian Navy and State Border Guards at the raid in Sevastopol bay and congratulated the crews on their professional holisay.

Also Victor Yushchenko took part in presentation of national decorations on the occasion of Ukrainian Fleet Day.

After that, as part of the celebrations, President Yushchenko took part in the graduation of cadets of Sevastopol Naval Institute. To the best graduates Victor Yushchenko gave presents, handed over their diplomas and naval dirks.

Also the President laid flowers to the memorial to heroic defenders of Sevastopol at the Nakhimov Square and to the monument to Admiral Nakhimov.

Development of Crimea is separate priority for me - President

"For me, as the President, Crimea is separate priority. For Crimea has special opportunities; for Crimea is interesting not only for the national capital, it is interesting for all of Europe. There is a specific product here not to be found in other European countries", said Victor Yushchenko at the meeting on development of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea in Simferopol.

The President urged the Crimean government to develop in every possible way the investment attractiveness of this territory and try its best to solve all the problems investor might face in implementation of investment projects. "Crimea is a special region and it should be two to three steps forward from where it is now in the organization and business", noted the President. "I would like to here more suggestions on how to push forward business development - large medium and small ... ", he said.

President honors memory of Crimean deportation victims

In Simferopol President Victor Yushchenko laid flowers to the memorial to victims of deportation.

President urges the VR to abolish deputy's immunity

President Victor Yushchenko called upon the Parliament to abolish parliamentary immunity, he said at the press conference in Simferopol, making comments on the decision of the Verkhovna Rada to deprive BYuT deputy V. Lozynsky of deputy mandate.

Also Victor Yushchenko noted with disappointment that by depriving V. Lozynsky of his mandate the Verkhovna Rada has in fact fulfilled the appeal of the suspect in serious crime and ignored the submission of the Prosecutor General and of the President requesting revoking the parliamentary immunity of deputies as such. "In essence, the Verkhovna Rada has shirked responsibility by refusing to recognize the clamant fact: the people's deputy is suspected of committing murder", - emphasized the President.

President - Crimea would benefit from the Eastern Partnership project

President Victor Yushchenko stressed that Crimea has a unique opportunity to become the first object of pilot programs for regional development within the framework of EU's Eastern Partnership.
"I would like to see Crimea take its rightful place in the project", said the President of Ukraine at the meeting on the development of Crimea, he held today in Simferopol.

Victor Yushchenko stressed that with start of Eastern Partnership Ukraine, together with five other countries, was provided with an instrument to realize potential and opportunities of its regions.

According to the President, several months ago through the working instrument of European Neighborhood Policy Ukraine has started a dialogue with the European Union on a separate program for the economic development of Crimea, which the EU would soon consider.

He also said that some projects are analyzed in the European Investment Bank, EBRD, World Bank and other international financial institutions.

Victor Yushchenko also informed that in accordance with the agreement with European Commissioner Benita Ferrero-Waldner Crimean delegation would visit Brussels from 16 to 18 July and hold talks on economic development of Crimea. "In addition to national business we should invite foreign capital to development of Crimea", - said Victor Yushchenko

President lays flowers to the Unknown Soldier's Tomb in Simferopol

President Victor Yushchenko took part in the ceremony of laying flowers at the Tomb of Unknown Soldier in Simferopol.

Other participants of the ceremony were Secretary of National Security and Defense Council, Raisa Bohatyryova, Autonomous Republic of Crimea Parliament Speaker Anatoly Hrytsenko, Crimean Crimean Council of Ministers Chairman Viktor Plakyda, Representative of the President in Crimea Leonid Zhunko, Minister for Education and Science Ivan Vakarchuk, Minister for Culture Vasyl Vovkun, Health Minister Vasyl Knyazevych, Minister for Family Yuriy Pavlenko, Minister for Environment Protection Georgiy Filipchuk, Minister for Emergencies

President holds phone talks with Swedish PM

President Victor Yushchenko phone conversation with the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Sweden Fredrik Reinfeldt.

President Yushchenko congratulated Prime Minister Reinfeldt on the beginning of Sweden's presidency over the European Union. The President praised the fact that the deepening of cooperation between the EU and Ukraine was identified by Sweden as one of the priorities of its presidency.

Also sides have discussed development of negotiations on the Association and Free Trade agreements between Ukraine and the EU, prospects of the Eastern Partnership, liberalization of visa regulations and energy security.

President meets CPPCC National Committee Vice Chairman

President Victor Yushchenko met today with Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee Vice Chairman Mr. Wan Gang.

Victor Yushchenko noted that Ukraine puts great importance in development of comprehensive mutually beneficial cooperation with China and appreciates the level of mutual understanding and trust between the two countries.

The President positively assessed the dynamics of trade and economic cooperation as well as pointed to progress in negotiations on development of military-technical cooperation. Also he said that Ukrainian side seeks to effectively use the potential of bilateral economic, scientific and humanitarian cooperation.

President Yushchenko also pointed to Ukraine's interest in intensification of investment cooperation with China, particularly in participation of Chinese capital in implementation of large infrastructure projects in Ukraine, especially in preparation to EURO 2012.

During the meeting sides also discussed international security and nuclear non-proliferation, political dialogue between the states, including at the highest level, etc.

President requests the VR to urgently consider revoking deputy immunity of state deputy V.Lozinsky

Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine should urgently consider Prosecutor General's Office request for consent for institution of criminal proceedings against state deputy V.Lozynsky, who is suspect in the case of V. Oliynyk's murder, his arrest and taking into custody.

"I appeal to the Verkhovna Rada for immediate consideration of Prosecutor General's Office request for revoking deputy immunity of state deputy V.Lozinsky. I emphasize urgency of adopting a decision on the specified request", said the President in his letter to Verkhovna Rada Speaker Volodymyr Lytvyn.

The President warned that V.Lozinsky, suspect of very serious crime for committing which the imprisonment foreseen in Ukrainian legislation may be from 7 to 10 years, can use his deputy status to undermine the investigation and impose pressure upon witnesses.

"All those guilty of the murder of citizen Oliynyk must be punished in accordance with the law regardless of their position or political status", stressed the President.

Meeting with CPPCC National Committee Vice Chairman

On July 2 at 12.30 President Victor Yushchenko will meet Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee Vice Chairman Mr. Wan Gang.

President awarded Honorary Doctor of Lublin Catholic University of John Paul II

Within the framework of celebration of the 440th anniversary of the Union of Lublin President Victor Yushchenkowas awarded the degree of Honorary Doctor of Lublin Catholic University of John Paul II.

President meets graduates of military and police academies

President Victor Yushchenko met today with graduates of military and police academies, who recieved diplomas with honors .

Congratulating the young officers on the beginning of their service the President stressed that their role and profession, they had chosen, are very important for the state and its citizens. "You represent the new generation of Ukrainian soldiers and policemen ... I am sure the more worthy generation", said Victor Yushchenko adding also that the new generation of officer corps would become the core of professional army in Ukraine and the new, reformed police forces.

President demands proper financing of judicial bodies

President Victor Yushchenko requested the Government to immediately address issues of financing of judicial bodies of Ukraine to ensure proper conditions for the functioning of courts and judges.

In his letter to Prime Minister Yulia Timoshenko President Victor Yushchenko stressed that the Constitution guarantees everyone the right to defend their rights and legitimate interests in court and obliges state government to provide funding and appropriate conditions for the functioning of courts and judges (articles 55 and 130 of the Basic Law).

However, said the President, today in Ukraine the situation with financing of courts is very unsatisfactory and threatening with mass violations of constitutional rights and freedoms of citizens and legal persons.

Visit to Crimea

On July 3-5 President Victor Yushchenko will make a working visit to the Republic of Crimea.

President takes part in celebration of the 440th anniversary of Union of Lublin

Together with the President of Poland Lech Kaczynski, Lithuania - Valdas Adamkus and former Chairman of the Parliament of Belarus Stanislav Shukhevych President Victor Yushchenko visited the ecumenical service at Lublin Cathedral.

Then, at the John Paul II Lublin Catholic University the President and heads of foreign delegations laid flowers at the monument to John Paul II and Cardinal Stefan Vyshynski.

After that the state leaders and high representatives took part in the opening and consecration of the memorial in honor of the 440^th anniversary of Union of Lublin treaty signature.

Heads of State and foreign delegations jointly participated in activities on the occasion of the anniversary of the historic document on the Lublin area in the city center near the monument Lublin Union.

In his speech at the arrangements Victor Yushchenko said, "With the highest dignity we speak out loud our national truth. We respect our common history, because we see hard and difficult school of life in it that taught all of us important truths. To be free and always support freedom of one another. To be equal and never let into our hearts the slightest intention of supremacy, nor that of humiliation. To be ourselves and love this great God given diversity in each other, which shapes our part of a single face of Europe".

Participants of the event also laid flowers at the monument to the Union of Lublin.

President congratulates Sweden on the beginning of her EU presidency

President Victor Yushchenko wrote a letter to the Prime Minister of Sweden John Fredrik Reinfeldt with congratulations on the beginning of Sweden’s presidency in the EU.

He expressed assurance that Sweden would contribute greatly to strengthening union’s potential in overcoming challenges of the present.

Also Victor Yushchenko expressed hope that in the time of its presidency in the EU the Swedish side would favor progress in such Ukraine-EU questions as signature of the Association and Free Trade Zone agreements, liberalization of visa regulations, development of cooperation in energy field, etc.

President goes to Poland

President Victor Yushchenko went with a working visit to Poland.
Within the framework of the visit, in Lublin, the President will take part in celebration of the 440^th anniversary of the Union of Lublin treaty signature.

Together with Presidents of other states and heads of foreign delegations Victor Yushchenko will attend the ceremony of opening and consecration of the memorial in honor of the 440^th anniversary of Lublin Union treaty signature called "From the Union of Lublin to the European Union", which will take place at Lublin Catholic University of John Paul II.

It is also expected that a multilateral declaration "From the Union of Lublin to the European Union" will be signed.

Visit to Poland

On July 1 President Victor Yushchenko will make a working visit to Poland.

President expects General Prosecutor's Office to study legality of Government hiding economic data

President Victor Yushchenko expects this week the Prosecutor General's Office to provide information on legality of the Government's decisions delaying publication of economic statistics.

"I asked the General Prosecutor's Office to study legality of Government's instructions, which had hidden the real statistics. I hope this week I will receive the information on this issue" he said said today in Vinnytsya in the interview to journalists.

The President expressed confidence that the relevant Government's decisions should be lifted. He also expressed assurance that the Cabinet hides economic data for only one reason: "These figures are bad".