Head of the delegation of the European Commission Ian Boag has marked progress in relations between Ukraine and the European Union.
He disclosed this in an interview to Fifth TV Channel on May 6.
"Ukraine is closer to the European Union than it was three years ago," Boag said.
He said that last three years, Ukrainian governments held reforms on approach to the EU, though sometimes political obstacles appeared on their way.
"We saw three different types of elections. The further, the closer Ukraine is to international standards. Mass media is much freer today and that is a significant progress for the country," he said.
According to Boag, relations between Ukraine and the EU have deepened, extended and become more intensive.
Nevertheless, he said that visa-free regime for the Ukrainians is not the issue of the near future.
"Ukraine is not absolutely separated from Europe. Of course, the Europeans have fewer obstacles to visit Ukraine, than vice versa, but we are trying to simplify the procedure. However, the aim to provide visa-free trips for Ukrainian citizens is not of the nearest future prospects," he said.
Boag failed to forecast results of the next Ukraine-EU summit, which will take place in France in September.
Boag said that Ukraine often raise the issue on provision it with associated member status foreseen it in the new enhanced agreement with the European Union, though there is no such legal term at all.
As Ukrainian News earlier reported, Boag forecasts that talks on creation of the free trade area between Ukraine ad the EU will be long and complicated.
PRESS CONFERENCE entitled "Signing of credit agreement between KfW Bankengruppe (Germany) and Mehabank Ltd."
