The European Parliament (EP) has expressed its continued support for the European aspirations of the Ukrainian people, and confirmed its commitment to sign the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement as soon as possible.

"[The EP] confirms the EU's commitment to further advancing relations with Ukraine through the signing of the association agreement - as soon as the Ukrainian authorities demonstrate determined action and tangible progress," reads the resolution on Ukraine adopted by the EP in Strasbourg on Thursday.

The EP did not rule out the possibility that the Association Agreement could be signed by the time of the Eastern Partnership Summit in Vilnius in November 2013.

At the same time, the EP noted that progress in political association and economic integration is dependent on Ukraine's tangible commitment to democratic principles, the rule of law, the independence of the judiciary and media freedom.

"[The EP] expresses continued support for the European aspirations of the Ukrainian people; regrets that the recent parliamentary elections did not constitute meaningful progress in advancing Ukraine's credentials in this regard; stresses that the EU remains committed to working with Ukraine, including civil society (NGOs, religious organizations, etc.), in order to improve democratic institutions, strengthen the rule of law, ensure media freedom and advance essential economic reforms," reads the resolution.

The EP also stressed that "effective cooperation between Ukraine and the European Union can only be realized on the basis of a clear willingness on the part of the Ukrainian authorities to carry out and implement the necessary reforms, in particular that of the legal and judicial system, with the aim of fully adhering to the principles of democracy and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, minority rights and the rule of law."

The EP also called for active and effective support to be given to the reform process in Ukraine by the institutions of the European Union, the Council of Europe and its Venice Commission.

In addition, the EP said that it expects that the Ukrainian authorities will consider the recommendations of the Venice Commission on the law on referendums in Ukraine, in order to prevent possible abuse of this legislation.

"[The EP] calls on the Verkhovna Rada to reject bill 8711, which limits freedom of expression in relation to sexual orientation and gender identity, which was adopted at first reading in October… This law is in clear breach of the European Convention on Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, both ratified by the parliament of Ukraine," reads the resolution.

The EP also welcomed the signing of the amended visa facilitation agreement between the European Union and Ukraine.

"[The EP] strongly appeals to VP/HR Catherine Ashton and Commissioner Stefan Fule to step up the EU's engagement with Ukraine and to remain committed to work towards using the full potential of the relations between the EU and Ukraine for the benefit of the citizens of Ukraine and the EU, inter alia by ensuring steady progress in the visa liberalization dialogue," reads the resolution.