European Union foreign policy chief Javier Solana has wrapped up a two-day visit to Ukraine, after urging officials to ensure fairness in upcoming elections.

Mr. Solana told a news conference in Kiev Thursday before his departure that free and fair elections will depend on cooperation between electoral authorities, parties and citizens. He added that open elections will enhance Ukraine's ties with the European Union.

Ukraine's parliamentary elections are set for March 31st.

Mr. Solana's visit comes amid growing concern about the lack of opposition access to Ukraine's news media and about alleged intimidation of news reporters who are critical of the government.

Some information for this report provided by AP and AFP.

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