The International Fund for Cooperation and Partnership of the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea (the International Fund) is closely observing the events unfolding in Ukraine, which is one of the cofounders of the International Fund, and once again expresses its deep concern on the deteriorating situation in this country.
The International Fund notes regretfully that the ongoing violence in the eastern regions of Ukraine led to the death of dozens of peaceful civilians.
The leadership and all members of the International Fund express their deep condolences to the families and friends of died.
Recent events demonstrate once again the crucial importance of a speedy and peaceful resolution of the crisis in Ukraine; otherwise it will have negative consequences for the security and stability of the Black Sea region and Central Europe as a whole.
The International Fund remains committed to its position that it is impossible to provide long-term resolution for the crisis in Ukraine by use of force. The only right way to overcome the current situation is dialogue and negotiations with the active involvement of Ukraine, Russia, EU and USA.
Ukraine and its people deserve a more dignified future, as well as stability and prosperity. In this regard, particular responsibility belongs to the international community. The International Fund believes that it is necessary to undertake effective measures, based on the norms and principles of international law, first and foremost, on respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, non-use of force against political independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity and non-interference in the internal affairs of states as well as excluding the violence against the peaceful civilians, in order to prevent the transformation of Ukraine into an arena of geopolitical discords.
The International Fund, with Ukraine being one of its cofounders and active members, expresses its hope, that the steps taken by Kiev towards carrying out constitutional reforms and the upcoming presidential elections will reflect the aspirations of all population strata in Ukraine and will play a positive role in the national dialogue and consolidation in this country.