European Union’s Head of Diplomacy, Josep Borrell, announced his visit to Ukraine on February 5th during a joint press conference with Poland’s Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski in Warsaw. The video recording of the conference was published on the European Commission’s website.
Borrell’s visit to Ukraine comes at a critical time for the country and the European Union. Ukraine has been facing ongoing political and economic challenges, while the EU has been working towards strengthening its ties with its Eastern neighbors.
During the press conference, Borrell emphasized the importance of Ukraine’s relationship with the EU, stating that «Ukraine is an important partner for the European Union and we are committed to supporting its reform efforts and its European path.» He also highlighted the EU’s financial and political support for Ukraine, including the Association Agreement and the visa-free travel regime.
The visit to Ukraine will be Borrell’s first official trip outside of the EU since taking office in December 2019. It showcases the EU’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s democratic and economic reforms, as well as its efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict in the Donbass region.
Borrell’s visit will also include meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Prime Minister Oleksiy Honcharuk, and Foreign Minister Vadym Prystaiko. Discussions will focus on key issues such as the implementation of the Minsk agreements, the fight against corruption, and economic cooperation.
The EU has been a strong supporter of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, and Borrell’s visit sends a clear message of solidarity and support. It also reaffirms the EU’s position that the conflict in Donbass must be resolved through diplomatic means and in accordance with international law.
In addition to political meetings, Borrell will also meet with representatives from civil society and business communities. This highlights the EU’s commitment to engaging with all sectors of Ukrainian society and promoting people-to-people contacts.
The timing of Borrell’s visit is significant, as it coincides with the 6th anniversary of the Euromaidan protests, which led to the ousting of former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych and the country’s pivot towards Europe. The EU’s support for Ukraine during this critical period has been crucial in its path towards democracy and European integration.
The visit also comes ahead of the upcoming EU-Ukraine Summit, which will take place in Brussels in March. This summit will provide an opportunity for both sides to review progress on the implementation of the Association Agreement and to discuss future cooperation.
Borrell’s visit to Ukraine is a testament to the strong partnership between the EU and Ukraine. It highlights the EU’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s democratic, economic, and social reforms, and its efforts to strengthen ties with its Eastern neighbors.
In conclusion, Borrell’s visit to Ukraine is a positive step towards further deepening the EU-Ukraine relationship. It reaffirms the EU’s support for Ukraine’s European aspirations and its commitment to promoting stability, democracy, and economic growth in the region.
