Following the decision of Ukraine to freeze the signing of a co-operation agreement with the European Union, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said that one had to move forward by showing that, besides friendship, Europe was offering these countries access to the single market and inspiration to young people.

Speaking during the plenary session of the Eastern Partnership Summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, Dr Muscat stated that the future of Europe was in integration.

“We cannot say that the European Union is surrounded by the easiest of neighbours... We have proof of that today in the east, but it is also evident in our region… the south,” he said.

The Prime Minister stressed upon the importance for more dialogue, also with the so-called invisible guests at the table.

The Prime Minister described the Ukrainian people’s reaction as a drift towards Europe which could be slowed but not stopped. He said he considered himself  a good friend of Ukraine and emphasised the message of Martin Schulz and  José Manuel Barroso that Europe was not turning a blind eye to Ukraine.

“Europe cares about Ukraine… Today's disappointment should be a positive starting point for discussions.”

The Prime Minister urged Ukraine to give a clear signal that it was ready to embrace the co-operation agreement with the European Union and to encourage its European colleagues to avoid disengaging from such strategic partners.