The chairman of the Party of Regions, Ukrainian Prime Minister Mykola Azarov, has congratulated party members on the upcoming New Year holiday, expressing hope for positive changes in the life of the country.

"Ukraine is continuing to develop good-neighborly and mutually beneficial relations with the CIS countries and the European Union, while defending its national interests," Azarov said in a letter of congratulations posted on the Web site of the Party of Regions on Monday.

"Historic agreements on a reduction in the price for Russian gas and the full resumption of trade and economic relations and industrial cooperation with the Russian Federation are opening up new opportunities for the economic development of the state, and help us confidently plan the further development of the country and improve social standards," Azarov said.

He said that Ukraine's course towards European integration remains unchanged.

"We have received reliable levers to stabilize the financial and economic situation in the state, continue to modernize our economy and, finally, create a free trade area with the European Union on strong positions, while having a free trade area with the CIS," he said.

He said that 2014 would be "a year of continuing positive developments in the life of the country and each of its residents" and wished all Ukrainians cheerful and joyful holidays.