President criticizes Cabinet for AA preparation

President Viktor Yanukovych criticized the government for its work on preparation of the Association Agreement with the European Union. 

"Like all citizens, I constantly received from the Government the reports on normal, effective dialogue with the countries of the Customs and the European Union. Like all Ukrainians, I trusted these estimates and positions, and like all citizens, I was confused about unpreparedness of government representatives to complete this process," he said at the meeting of the Council of Regions, ForUm correspondent reports.

Yanukovych stressed that uncertainty led to the fact that Ukraine was forced to make tough and drastic steps. "Of course, I had to undertake responsibility for decisions in Vilnius and Moscow. And as the President, I certainly took the brunt of criticism and accusations," he said.

However, the President stressed that the dialogue with the EU on future paths of real and effective cooperation continues.

Referring to Prime Minister Mykola Azarov, Yanukovych said that he expected the government and parliament to closely cooperate in the negotiation process for the preparation of the Agreement with the EU, which would be beneficial for Ukraine and consistent with its national interests.