Portugal supports Ukraine's membership in NATO when conditions allow

Ukraine and Portugal have signed a declaration that provides for Lisbon's support for Kyiv, including in the context of Ukraine's European and Euro-Atlantic integration.

The document was approved during Saturday's phone call between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa, Ukrinform reports, citing the head of state's press service.

"The Portuguese Republic will continue its political, financial, humanitarian and military support to Ukraine for as long as it takes – individually and through international cooperation in the European Union, in NATO, in the United Nations and in other formats," the declaration reads.

In addition, Portugal "strongly supports" Ukraine in its reform efforts and in meeting the requirements needed to start accession negotiations, looking forward to a European Commission positive report.

In the NATO framework, Portugal continues to focus on the immediate support to Ukraine, including through a reinforced NATO Comprehensive Assistance Package. In coordination with Allies and partners, Portugal continues its support to bolster Ukraine's capacity to defend itself and recalls that Ukraine has the right to choose its own security arrangements.

"The Portuguese Republic will continue to support Ukraine on its path towards future membership and supports Ukraine to become NATO Member when conditions allow for it. Ukraine and the Portuguese Republic look forward to addressing all these issues at the upcoming NATO Summit in Vilnius in July 2023," the document reads.

The full text of the declaration has been published on the website of the head of state.

The NATO summit will be held in Vilnius on July 11-12.