KIEV, Feb. 14 - Bogdan Corporation, one of the leading operators on the automotive market and vehicle manufacturers, says it may start suspending operations and dismissing workers at its companies in connection with the continuing numerous checks by controlling and fiscal authorities and pressure on the business.

"Despite the declarative statements about facilitating business development and improving the investment climate, in fact economic racketeering by civil servants is observed in the country. Only 'friendly' companies can do business in Ukraine," reads a public appeal by the corporation to Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych, Prosecutor General Viktor Pshonka and Acting Premier Serhiy Arbuzov, provided to Interfax-Ukraine by company press secretary Serhiy Krasulia.