Key issues of Ukraine–EU cooperation agenda discussed at President’s Office

Deputy Head of the President’s Office Ihor Zhovkva held a meeting with Deputy Secretary General of the European External Action Service Enrique Mora who is visiting Ukraine.

As the President's Office reports, the parties discussed the key issues of Ukraine–EU cooperation agenda, in particular, considered Ukraine's further steps towards European integration and praised Ukraine's progress in implementing seven recommendations of the European Commission.

"We expect the European Council to adopt in December the decision to start negotiations on Ukraine's EU membership after the European Commission gives a corresponding recommendation in October," Zhovkva said.

The parties also discussed the topic of the EU's sanctions policy towards Russia, the content of the next, 12th package of sanctions, as well as the need to further strengthen the European Union's sanctions against the aggressor and combat attempts to circumvent sanctions.

"Attention was paid to the provision of security assistance to our country by the EU member states and the importance of successful implementation of the European Union's joint plan for the artillery ammunition supply to Ukraine," the statement reads.

In addition, the meeting participants exchanged views on further steps in the implementation of the Ukrainian Peace Formula and preparations for the Global Peace Summit. The important role of the EU in supporting all points of the Formula and the need for wider involvement of the Global South leading countries in its implementation were noted.

"A just and lasting peace can be achieved only after the Russian occupation forces are withdrawn and the entire territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders is liberated. And all our partners must understand this axiom," Zhovkva said.

The meeting participants also discussed preparations for the third summit of the Crimea Platform which will be held in Kyiv on August 23.

As reported, on July 20, the European Union, Great Britain, Canada, and other countries announced the imposition of sanctions against Russia and its supporters which help it circumvent restrictions imposed over the aggression against Ukraine.