Czech president begins state visit to Ukraine

The Czech president, Miloš Zeman, has begun a three-day state visit to Ukraine. Prior to his departure for Kiev, the Czech embassy in the city said his visit would focus on fostering closer cooperation between Ukraine and the European Union. Mr. Zeman is due to hold talks with his Ukrainian counterpart, Viktor Yanukovych, and to discuss with local politicians the situation surrounding the imprisoned former prime minister, Yulia Tymoshenko.