Josep Borrell supports Ukraine’s advance on the European Union path despite the war

EU High Representative Josep Borrell has expressed support for Ukraine’s efforts to implement the necessary reforms for European Union membership, which continue despite the ongoing conflict against Russian aggression.

Borrell made this statement today in New York during a press conference following an informal meeting of EU foreign ministers held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, as reported by a Ukrinform correspondent.

“The Minister (of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine) Sybiha debriefed us on Ukraine’s efforts to advance on the European Union path, while defending itself from Russian aggression. I welcome and I can only encourage this approach, because remember, Ukraine is a candidate to become member of the European Union. I mention it because in a few weeks, before the end of my term, I will present together with my colleagues in the European Commission, the next enlargement report, where we will take stock of the progress achieved by our candidates, and, in particular, by Ukraine,” noted the EU High Representative.

Ukraine is fighting on several fronts at the same time, doing the reforms required to be a Member of the European Union, and fighting in the battlefield, and fighting in the rearguard. Trying to make the civilian population to survive, to be protected from the attacks, and to have the economic and financial capacity to fulfil all the commitments of a state, he said.

Borrell reminded that since the onset of Russia’s full-scale military invasion of Ukraine, the military support to Ukraine provided by the European Union and its member countries has reached €46 billion. Together with economic, financial, humanitarian support, Ukraine has received over €100 billion from European partners, making the EU the largest donor to Ukraine.

As Ukrinform previously reported, the 79th session of the UN General Assembly has commenced in New York. On September 22-23, prior to high-level discussions, a Summit for the Future was held, during which countries agreed on a so-called Pact for the Future, outlining key areas for UN reform and enhancing its effectiveness.

The general debate of the 79th session of the General Assembly opened on Tuesday, September 24, will continue through Saturday, September 28, and conclude on Monday, September 30, 2024.

The theme for the general debate of the 79th session of the General Assembly is “Leaving no one behind: acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations”.

ukrinform.ua