Shmyhal, Sefcovic discuss strengthening energy security

The meeting of the two officials was held in Brussels on November 30, Ukrinform reports, referring to the Government portal.

It is noted that in July 2021, Ukraine and the European Union launched a strategic partnership in the raw materials sector and signed a Memorandum of Understanding, which launches a strategic cooperation in the field of critical raw materials.

According to the Prime Minister, the roadmap of Ukraine’s measures for 2021-2022 envisages practical steps to implement such strategic partnership.

"According to the Roadmap, it is planned to launch research and innovation in the field of critical raw materials in order to recycle waste, modern materials and replacing them with the help of the Horizon Europe and other research and innovation programs," said the Prime Minister.

Shmyhal also said that an important area of strengthening cooperation between Ukraine and the EU is the involvement of Ukrainian enterprises in industrial alliances. Thus, more than 10 companies joined the European Raw Materials Alliance (ERMA), and four companies joined the European Battery Alliance.

Shmyhal stressed that the establishment of cooperation within the European Battery Alliance is rather promising for Ukraine.

"Exploration, production and processing projects require access to additional financial instruments. Involving the capabilities of European financial institutions in projects that pose common European-Ukrainian interest in the raw materials industry could be an effective tool for achieving shared goals and initiatives," said the Prime Minister.

According to him, Ukraine expects to intensify cooperation with the European Commission and EU member states on the full range of issues related to improving energy security in Europe.

Shmyhal thanked the European Commission for the positive decision of granting Ukraine access to the working group on gas supply risks.

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