European Commission proposes granting candidate status to Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia
According to Ukrinform, the European Commission said this in a press release on its opinions on the applications for EU membership submitted by Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova.
"The European Commission has found that Ukraine overall is well advanced in reaching the stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy, the rule of law, human rights and respect for and protection of minorities; has continued its strong macro-economic record, demonstrating a noteworthy resilience with macroeconomic and financial stability, while needing to continue ambitious structural economic reforms; and has gradually approximated to substantial elements of the EU acquis in many areas," the statement said.
On this basis, "the Commission recommends that Ukraine be given the perspective to become a member of the European Union. It should be granted candidate status on the understanding that steps are taken in a number of areas," the European Commission said.
As for Moldova, the European Commission concluded that "the country has a solid foundation in place to reach the stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy, the rule of law, human rights and respect for and protection of minorities; macroeconomic policies have been reasonably sound and progress has been made in strengthening the financial sector and business environment but key economic reforms remain to be undertaken; the country has established a solid basis to further alignment with the EU acquis."
"On this basis, the Commission recommends that Moldova be given the perspective to become a member of the European Union. It should be granted candidate status on the understanding that steps are taken in a number of areas," the European Commission said.
In its opinion on Georgia's application, the European Commission said that "Georgia has a foundation in place to reach the stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy, the rule of law, human rights and respect for and protection of minorities, even if recent developments have undermined the country's progress."
It was noted that the country has achieved a good degree of macroeconomic stability and has a sound record of economic policy and a favorable business environment, "but further reforms are needed to improve the functioning of its market economy; and overall, Georgia has established a solid basis for further alignment with the EU acquis."
On this basis, the European Commission also recommended giving Georgia the perspective to become a member of the European Union and granting the country candidate status once a number of priorities have been addressed.
"Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia share the strong and legitimate aspiration of joining the European Union. Today, we are sending them a clear signal of support in their aspirations, even as they face challenging circumstances. And we do so standing firm on our European values and standards, setting out the path they need to follow in order to join the EU," said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
According to her, the European Commission's opinions mark an "inflection point in our relations." "Indeed, this is a historic day for the people of Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia. We are confirming that they belong, in due time, in the European Union. The next steps are now in the hands of our Member States," she said.
According to the press release, based on the European Commission's opinions, the EU Member States will now have to decide unanimously on the next steps.
The applications for EU membership by Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova in light of the European Commission's opinions will be discussed at the next European Council on June 23 and 24.
