Canada's NDP

Skip to main content

November 25th, 2013

NDP concerned about the situation in Ukraine

New Democrats are disappointed by the decision by the Ukrainian government to suspend negotiations for an Association Agreement and Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area with the European Union.

“The proposed Agreement would have been one of the most significant accords ever reached between the EU and a partner country,” said NDP Foreign Affairs Critic Paul Dewar. “Far beyond a simple free trade agreement, it would have represented an important commitment by the Ukrainian government to protect human rights and democracy.”

Since the announcement of the government’s decision last week, tens of thousands of protesters have gathered for rallies in central Kiev. Media reports indicate that they have been confronted with anti-riot police.

"With additional protests likely in the coming days, I urge all sides to exercise restraint,” added Dewar. “The Canadian government should call on the Ukrainian government to work with opposition parties and the international community to build a peaceful and prosperous future for the Ukrainian people that embodies principles of openness, democracy, and the rule of law”.