Ukraine, Syria eye closer relations

Ukraine is ready to further develop relations with Syria, one of the most influential and respected countries in the Arab and Islamic world, President Viktor Yanukovych said here Friday.

"Ukraine and Syria are linked with the years of friendship and fruitful cooperation, and I hope the results of the talks will give a powerful impetus to the development of bilateral relations," Yanukovich said at a meeting with visiting Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

Yanukovych said he believes both countries "will continue to take measures to ensure the political dialogue at high level."

In turn, al-Assad said his country is interested in developing long-term strategic partnership with Ukraine.

"We should starting this partnership with a political dialogue, policy advice, coordination of positions between our countries and, finally, to complete it by signing the agreement on the establishment of a free trade area," the Syrian leader said.

Source: Xinhua