NATO reinforces commitment to Ukraine

KRAKOW, Poland, Feb. 20 (UPI) -- NATO Secretary-General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer said Friday the organization remains committed to helping Ukraine reform its defense and security structures.

Scheffer spoke at on the second day of a NATO summit in the Polish city of Krakow.

"NATO remains ready to assist Ukraine in undertaking comprehensive reforms in its defense and security structures," Scheffer said. "We are determined to continue to develop this strategic partnership."

The meeting included talks on the possibility of Ukraine becoming a NATO member, and the country's participation in operations headed by the international organization.