On the June 11, President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko opened a symbolic door to the EU on the Ukrainian-Slovak border during the ceremony on the occasion of visa-free travel regime.
Poroshenko opened the symbolic door to the EU with a key, and on the other side, the president of Slovakia, Andrei Kysa, came towards him.
Now, Ukrainians are celebrating the first days of visa-free travel to most EU countries, which President Petro Poroshenko announced as a final exit of the country from the Russian Empire. By midday, thousands of travelers had crossed EU borders and passed passport control without any questions. This regime allows to stay in the territory of EU countries for not more than 90 days during the 180-day period. During this period, they are not supposed to work or stay longer, but it can be helpful in finding business partners. Travelers will also be able to visit relatives or take part in some sport events.
Hugues Mingarelli, the head of the EU delegation to Ukraine said, that visa-free regime was “just the first step” toward “intensifying relations” between the EU and Ukraine. He also announced that Ukrainians will be able to travel to 30 countries of West Europe without any visa requirements.
“We must return Ukrainians their history. That is why today’s decision of the EU is so important. A long process has been completed. First of all, it goes about the return of Ukraine to its historic place among the European countries, not only about the visa-free border crossing,” said Poroshenko.
Poroshenko said on June 10 as he counted down the final 12 hours before the start of the travel regime, he believes Ukraine will become a member of both NATO and the EU.
Visa-free regime will create new opportunities for Ukrainians, strengthening economies of Ukraine.
