Astana, Kazakhstan, April 29
By Daniar Mukhtarov - Trend:
Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev believes that Ukraine has not been dealing with its economy for over 20 years of its independence and this is the main reason for the current crisis in this country.
Nazarbayev made the remarks during a lecture at the Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU), Kazakh president's press service said.
"Today when the entire world is talking about Ukraine, I cannot ignore this issue. You know I studied in Ukraine, and I am not indifferent towards the fate of Ukrainian people. I feel the shocks that occurred in this country with a heavy heart," he said.
Nazarbayev went on to add that many countries of Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) failed to develop a comprehensive policy, to achieve sustainable development, as compared to the states, which are included into the Eurasian Economic Union.
"Ukraine ranked second in the former Soviet Union in terms of its industrial base and potential. The country had much more opportunities for confident self-development than any other country. However, over two decades of independence this country poorly dealt with economy and well-being of people, and has been more engaged in politics. I consider this a main cause of the current crisis in Ukraine," the president said.
Nazarbayev wished the Ukrainian people to rapidly restore stability in the country, as well as harmony and unity.
"In any case the relations with our countries are beneficial for Ukraine. We must remember this," Nazarbayev said.
A change of power took place in Ukraine on February 22.
The Verkhovna Rada (parliament) of Ukraine ousted President Viktor Yanukovych from the power, changed the constitution and scheduled presidential elections for May 25.
Yanukovych said he was forced to leave Ukraine under the threat of violence, and he remains the legally elected head of state.
A number of provinces in eastern and southern Ukraine, as well as the Crimea did not recognize the legitimacy of the Rada and decided on possibility of holding a referendum on the future fate of the regions.
The vast majority of residents of Crimea - 96 percent - voted to secede from Ukraine and join Russia, in a referendum held March 16.
With the exception of Russia most countries refused to recognize the referendum and its results.
Russia and Crimea signed an agreement on March 18 on Crimea as well as Sevastopol city joining the Russian Federation.
Translated by E.A.
Edited by S.I.