Ukraine and the European Commission will soon start work on an Action Plan to bring Ukraine closer to the European Union, to be ready by spring next year, the European Commission member in charge of EU enlargement has said.

Commissioner Guenter Verheugen told reporters that Ukraine's remaining an independent, politically stable and economically developing country serves the EU's strategic goals.

He was speaking after negotiations with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Kostiantyn Hryshchenko, who said an agreement was reached at the talks to have more contacts in Brussels.

"We foresee a very active dialogue at all levels, including the highest level," Hryshchenko said.

"I believe that Ukraine is facing practical European prospects, which to a considerable extent depend on us as well. It was extremely important for me to hear from the high representative of the European Commission that these opportunities are open to us."

(Interfax 15.ix.03)