Norway concerned about rule of law in Ukraine

Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs Jonas Gahr Støre commented, “The way in which the trial of former prime minister Yulia Tymoshenko, who has been sentenced to seven years’ imprisonment, was conducted, raises serious questions. It has created an impression that the trial was politically motivated, which is cause for serious concern.”

Ukraine currently holds the chairmanship of the Council of Europe, and will take over the chairmanship of Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) in 2013. The country is thus playing a key role in Europe. This makes it particularly important for Ukraine to demonstrate a strong commitment to democracy, human rights and the rule of law. 

 “Ukraine’s credibility as a state governed by the rule of law is at risk. If there is an appeal against the judgment, we expect it to be conducted in full accordance with internationally recognised principles of justice, independence and transparency, as befits a modern state,” said Mr Støre.