国际英语新闻：Clinton says NATO's door still open to Ukraine

KIEV, July 2 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said Friday that the door to NATO remains open to Ukraine but the country is under no obligation to join.

"Regarding NATO, let me say very clearly: Ukraine is a sovereign and independent country that has the right to choose your own alliances," Clinton said during talks with Foreign Minister Kostyantyn Gryshchenko.

"NATO's door remains open but it is up to Ukraine to decide whether or not you wish to pursue that or any other course for your own security interests," she said.

Clinton also expressed hope that Ukraine would reach a deal to secure a new multi-billion-dollar IMF loan. She encouraged the country to strengthen its investment climate through economic reforms and by protecting intellectual property rights.

"We know that you are undertaking reform plans, which we very much welcome. We hope that Ukraine will conclude an agreement with the IMF shortly to advance this process," she said.

Clinton arrived in Ukraine on Friday for a two-day visit, the first by a senior U.S. official since President Viktor Yanukovych took office in February.