The signing ceremony of legislative decision to grant visa-free regime for Ukrainian citizens by the European Union was held in Strasbourg today.
The decision will later be published in official EU journal and will enter into force in 20 days. It is expected to happen on June 11.
"We have done it. Great! Everything is okay, everyone is happy… We are all here, we are very glad, very happy, journalists are delighted, politics are happy, 45 million Ukrainian people are happy," president said.
“Today is a historical day for Ukraine, for my 45 million nation. And I am absolutely confident that this is a historical day for the EU. Ukraine returns to the European family. Ukraine says final farewell to the Soviet and Russian empire,” Petro Poroshenko said at the press conference upon completion of the ceremony.
“This is very important. I always say that the war is not a reason for not providing reforms. And I appreciate the European Parliament for supporting us in this not easy time when Ukraine defends against the Russian aggression,” president added.
Earlier Ambassadors of EU member countries have approved the visa free regime for Ukrainian citizens.
The decree enables Ukrainian people to travel to all countries of Schengen Area, except for Ireland and United Kingdom. Beyond that, Ukrainians will be able to visit four countries outside the EU: Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
