Russia and Ukraine are to sign a number of agreements in December, in particular, on the simplified border crossing regime

Russia and Ukraine are to sign a number of agreements in December, in particular, on the simplified border crossing regime, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Fradkov said after the meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart Viktor Yanukovich, who is the main Ukrainian presidential contender together with opposition leader Viktor Yushchenko. "Today we are making the list of documents to be signed in December. At issue are the withdrawal from free trade regime, border crossing and fishery cooperation," Mr. Fradkov said. According to him, the simplified border crossing regime needs additional consideration in connection with Ukraine's plans to introduce the new order of Russian nationals' entry to the country by their foreign passports. Speaking about the condition of bilateral relations in general, Mikhail Fradkov noted that they were developing subsequently and rapidly and the sides were fulfilling all agreement, especially, those signed by the heads of state. On his part, Viktor Yanukovich said that the simplified border crossing regime should be launched on January 1, 2005 and this problem is being solved bilaterally. "The agreement will give the final solution to this problem and further integration will be developing in 2005," the Ukrainian Prime Minister noted.