NATO chief Jaap de Hoop Scheffer said if next month's elections are free and fair, Ukraine will improve its membership chances (file photo) (AFP)
16 February 2006 -- NATO says it supports Ukraine's aspirations to join the alliance, but eventual entry will depend on the country's commitment to democratic reforms.
NATO Secretary-General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer told reporters during a visit to the Polish capital, Warsaw, that the alliance hopes Ukraine's parliamentary elections next month "will be free and fair."
Scheffer indicated that the 26 March vote will play a role in Ukraine's possible acceptance into the organization.
Ukraine's Prime Minister Yuriy Yekhanurov was also in Warsaw today for talks with Polish leaders.
(AP, AFP)