MINSK, 24 November (BelTA-TASS) – Prime Minister of Sweden Stefan Lofven believes that the European Union is establishing closer relations with the countries participating in the Eastern Partnership Initiative — Georgia, Ukraine, Moldova, Belarus, Azerbaijan, and Armenia. The politician made the relevant statement as he arrived in Brussels, Belgium on 24 November to take part in the fifth Eastern Partnership Initiative summit, BelTA has learned.
Stefan Lofven said: “On the whole, I believe the countries are getting closer. Since we have had an agreement on association and free trade with them for some time now, we can see that clear-cut steps are made here. But the countries themselves should decide where they want to go and how fast. Meanwhile, we should call for the observance of international law, fight against corruption and so on.”
In his words, the Eastern Partnership program is not a way to keep the six countries away from Russia's influence. “This partnership is not aimed against anyone,” he said.
Sweden is believed to be one of the key forces behind the creation of the Eastern Partnership Initiative in 2009. “We came up with the initiative together with Poland. It was brought about by security in our region and the ability of the countries to decide for themselves how they want to develop and in which direction they want to move. It is totally obvious that a larger volume of free trade and contacts between countries ensures a higher level of security and confidence,” explained the Swedish head of government.
