Ukrainian Prime Minister Mykola Azarov objects to what he sees as over-politicization of the possibility of Ukraine signing the Association Agreement with the European Union and insists that Ukraine needs European integration primarily to reform and modernize itself.

"Understand me right that the matter is absolutely not about signing an agreement with the European Union. Some are over-politicizing this issue, saying that, if we don't sign it, we won't go to Europe, and, vice versa, if we sign, then we'll be in Europe tomorrow. Both viewpoints are wrong. We are doing this primarily for ourselves, understanding the need for radical reform and modernization of our country. This is what it's all about," Azarov said at a meeting with members of national associations of the disabled in Kyiv on Tuesday.

He pointed out that Ukraine's modernization and introduction of European standards in the country would cost about EUR 150 billion to EUR 160 billion.

The Ukrainian leadership is certainly concerned about trade-economic relations with Russia and is doing all it can to normalize them, Azarov said.