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Developments in eastern Ukraine

Self-proclaimed Lugansk Republic to build democratic, rule of law state

LUGANSK, June 12, /ITAR-TASS/. The self-proclaimed Lugansk People’s Republic (LNR) intends to build a democratic, rule-of-law and welfare state, according to the note to the programme of priority actions announced by the LNR government.

The proclaimed goals include building a state where “citizens are protected from any form of discrimination on ethnic, linguistic or social grounds and can fully realise their rights and possibilities”.

The programme also sets the task of bringing the quality of life in the republic “to that in Russia and the European Union”.

The document is divided into three stages. The main priority at the first stage (June-August 2014) is “urgent measures to protect citizens and normalise life in the republic”.

The second stage (until the end of 2015) will include “stabilisation of the economic and social sphere, the strengthening of ties with Russia and the development of modern and transparent legislation”.

At the final stage (until the end of 2016) the main attention will be riveted to “developing the economy, raising social standards, creating modern and fair pension and social welfare systems, and modernising industry and agriculture”.

The LNR government also intends to “conclude agreements with Ukraine and other states” during this period.

The LNR has asked Russia and 14 other countries to recognise its independence.

“The Supreme Council of the LNR, city and district councils of people’s deputies and public associations hereby request recognition of the LNR as a sovereign and independent state,” the statement signed by the head of the LNR Supreme Council said.

“The document was adopted on Tuesday evening at a meeting of the LNR Supreme Council,” the republic’s spokesperson told ITAR-TASS.

Similar requests have been sent to Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, China, Serbia, Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua.

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Eastern Ukraine

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