Michel invites Associated Trio countries to compete in reforms

“We welcome the [Associated] Trio initiative to foster coordination between the associated partners and Brussels, which can lead to the sharing of best practices on reforms, on implementation, and a broader agenda for the future … Let me make one suggestion. Why not introduce competitive benchmarking in key reforms? This would help galvanise momentum and increase mutual support among partners and help secure your ever closest ties with the EU,” Michel said at the Batumi International Conference in the session “Three Nations – One Choice: Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine on the Move”, Ukrinform reports.

He noted that today's [July 19] meeting of the leaders of Ukraine, Georgia, and Moldova was an important milestone that highlights the special ties that connect the EU with its associated partners.

“I believe that the Eastern Partnership is a locomotive for transformation, prosperity, and growth. It is a powerful symbol of openness, mutual confidence, and our cooperation. It has been one generation of independence for you, and in this one generation, the distance between your societies and the EU has shrunk in unprecedented ways. The EU is your most committed partner for greater democracy, stability, and prosperity and, above all, good for the benefit of the peoples of your countries,” said Michel.

ol