George H.W. Bush: “May 6, 1992 Declaration on U.S.-Ukrainian Relations and the Building of a Democratic Partnership Today's talks mark a…”

“May 6, 1992 Declaration on U.S.-Ukrainian Relations and the Building of a Democratic Partnership Today's talks mark a historic step in the development of relations between our two great nations. For the first time, an American President has met with the freely-elected President of a sovereign Ukraine. The Ukrainian people are now building their own state, one whose independence and commitment to democracy can make a vital contribution to the creation of a new Europe truly whole and free. The United States places special importance on the consolidation of Ukraine's democracy and independence. Toward this end, we are agreed that we must work together as friends and partners for the mutual benefit of both our peoples, and in the interests of international peace and stability. Politically, we will strive to protect and promote the values that bind us together in the democratic community of nations, including free and fair elections, freedom of emigration, the rule of law, and respect for human rights, including the rights of all minorities, regardless of their nationalities and beliefs. The United States takes special note of Ukraine's commitment to establish its independence in full accordance with these principles, and its efforts to build a just and stable society where fundamental freedoms of all peoples are guaranteed. Economically, we will work to advance the values of economic freedom without which democracy and prosperity cannot flourish.…”