EU commends Ukraine’s commitment to the EU reform process in its latest enlargement conclusions

In the enlargement conclusions, adopted on 17 December, the Council of the European Union reiterated the EU’s steadfast support for Ukraine and its EU accession path, and commends Ukraine’s commitment to the EU reform process.

The Council positively noted the progress achieved in the important areas of rule of law and judicial and public administration reform, which “remain vital for strengthening Ukraine’s resilience and for further progress in the enlargement process”. The EU ministers also welcomed the ongoing renewal process of the judicial governance bodies, notably the High Council of Justice and the High Qualification Commission of Judges of Ukraine, and the Constitutional Court.

The Council also welcomed Ukraine’s ratification of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and invited Ukraine to take further steps to ensure full domestic alignment.

The Council welcomed the fact that the legislative and institutional framework on fundamental rights is in place and looked forward to its further implementation and consolidation. EU ministers also encouraged Ukraine to continue its efforts to strengthen freedom of expression and media in line with the Commission’s recommendations, despite the challenges caused by Russia’s war of aggression.

The Council welcomed Ukraine’s progress towards ensuring the independent and effective functioning of anti-corruption institutions, encouraging Ukraine to continue addressing remaining challenges and to further strengthen its financial investigations and anti-money laundering measures.

On the economic criteria, the Council acknowledged the exceptional difficulties for Ukraine in conducting monetary policy and overall economic governance under the current circumstances, and in these regards took positive note that Ukraine has made “some progress towards establishing a functioning market economy”.

The Council also commended Ukraine’s efforts to enhance energy security and independence of supply despite Russia’s persistent attacks against Ukraine’s energy and civilian infrastructure.

“The EU stands ready to continue providing support to urgently increase Ukraine’s energy security and strengthen the resilience of Ukraine’s energy system and provide support to the reconstruction of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure,” the conclusions say.

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Press release

Conclusions

Ukraine 2024 Enlargement Package Factsheet

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