New Ukrainian President Touts Domestic Reforms, Non-Aligned Foreign Policy

25 February 2010

Ukraine's President Viktor Yanukovych holds a Bulava, a historical symbol of power, after taking oath in the parliament in Kiev, Ukraine, 25 Feb 2010

Ukraine's newly inaugurated president, Viktor Yanukovych, says the country can only address its endemic poverty and corruption if it reforms a system of government currently designed to serve the interests of individual politicians. Speaking in parliament after taking the oath of office, Mr. Yanukovych said Ukraine should be a non-aligned country that serves as a bridge between Europe and the former Soviet Union.

Mr. Yanukovych took the oath of office on the 16th century Peresopnytska Gospel, the oldest religious text printed in the Ukrainian language. After receiving a mace, the traditional symbol of Ukrainian power, Mr. Yanukovych told lawmakers and foreign dignitaries that he assumes the presidency amid extremely complicated circumstances - including the absence of a national budget, a colossal foreign debt, poverty, a ruined economy and corruption.

He says addressing these problems will require an effective government and political opposition, which all synchronize their work with the president. He urged Ukrainians to cleanse their hearts of what he called "the poison of hate", in terms reminiscent of President Obama's call to extend a hand to foreign adversaries willing to unclench their fists.