The accession of Ukraine to the WTO was agreed by the General Council on 5 February 2008, in the presence of President Viktor Yushchenko. This completed a long process of negotiations in which Norway participated actively, and Norwegian Embassy expressed satisfaction that Ukraine is soon a Member. Here is the statement that Ambassador Eirik Glenne held at the Council meeting.
06/02/2008 :: Let me join others in extending a warm welcome to you President Viktor Yushchenko, and to the members of your delegation to our GC meeting today.
It is with great satisfaction that we agreed to adopt the report of the Working Party on the accession of Ukraine. Your accession serves to underscore the universal nature of the WTO. It will be an important event in the history of our organisation and we are certain also to your country, Mr. President.
I commend the Ukrainian negotiators, who have been both dedicated and constructive. Like others I also thank the former chairs and the present chairman of the Working Party for their leadership, and the Accession Division of the WTO Secretariat for a job very well done.
We are pleased that the bilateral protocols between Norway and Ukraine were signed already in July 2005. Ukraine’s WTO membership will be an important step in the strengthening and further development of trade and economic relations between Norway and Ukraine. It will contribute to improved conditions for our economic operators and thus contribute to economic growth in both our countries and thus also help in our efforts to further the wellbeing of our citizens.
We very much welcome the accession of Ukraine to the WTO.