
The President reminded that in 2012, the emphasis of reforms would shift from the center to the regions. "Effective economy, improving people’s lives, building a strong state is our goals. We can achieve them only through the modernization of the country ... Surely, this year will allow to see the results of reforms and significantly expand the powers regional governments," said Viktor Yanukovych.
"I stand for strengthening local governments," Viktor Yanukovych said, adding, however, that it is a long process, which cannot complete in a year or two. "Decentralization of power will improve the quality of life, so we have to go on with this long and difficult work," Viktor Yanukovych said.