TAIEX: Commissioners Kubilius and Kos reinforce EU commitment to enlargement and global partnerships

On April 22-23, EU Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius and Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos are gathering representatives from Member States, partner countries, and the broader institution-building community to reinforce the EU’s commitment to enlargement and global partnerships. 

The gathering marks 30 years of the Technical Assistance and Information Exchange Instrument (TAIEX), which has become a key tool in assisting EU candidate countries on their path to membership. 

“Europe can learn much from Ukraine. Why not build a Ukrainian TAIEX-style service to support EU and candidate countries? A European Defence Union with Ukraine could follow. 

Enlargement is in the interest of the EU – it helps build a Europe that is free, whole, and at peace,” Andrius Kubilius posted on X.

Through knowledge-sharing and expertise from EU Member States, TAIEX strengthens public services, supports the adoption of EU legislation, and drives reforms linked to EU accession, ensuring that partner countries are equipped to implement meaningful and lasting reforms.

TAIEX also supports partner countries across the world in addressing critical challenges such as digital transformation, climate resilience, public health, economic modernisation and sound business environments. 

“This work strengthens EU partnerships, enhances trade relations, and promotes the adoption of EU standards based on shared best practices,” says a press release published by the European Commission Directorate-General for Enlargement and Eastern Neighbourhood (DG ENEST).

During the event, Commissioner Kos will present the TAIEX Champions Awards, recognising exceptional contributions to reform and cooperation through expertise.

Seven YEAs from Armenia, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine took part in the conference, actively participating in discussions and debates. 

They also contributed to the TAIEX anniversary campaign ‘Faces of TAIEX’ by producing multiple interviews in the form of short videos, which can be viewed on the official website.

“I am deeply impressed by the scale and the number of change-makers we met. We have networked with many YEAs from other regions and will definitely spread valuable information about the impact of TAIEX together!” said Anna Shvets, a YEA from Ukraine.

“It’s inspiring to hear firsthand about the important progress made over the years and the future support planned for Moldova and other nations,” said Beatrice Adebayo, YEA from Moldova. “Seeing so many leaders, experts, and people who have contributed to making these changes happen, reminds me how important cooperation and strong institutions are for my country’s future.”