The European Council Decides to Open EU Accession Negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova

December 14, 2023

The European Council has made a historic decision to open EU accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova. This decision marks a significant step forward in the relationship between the European Union and these two Eastern European countries.

The European Council, consisting of the heads of state or government of EU member states, made this decision after careful consideration of the progress made by Ukraine and Moldova in implementing reforms and aligning with EU values and standards. The decision reflects the EU’s commitment to supporting and encouraging democratic reforms, rule of law, and respect for human rights in its neighboring countries.

Ukraine and Moldova have been working towards closer integration with the EU for several years. Both countries have expressed their desire to join the European Union and have implemented numerous reforms to meet the EU’s criteria for membership. The decision to open accession negotiations is a recognition of the progress made by these countries and a commitment from the EU to support their further integration.

For Ukraine, this decision comes as a major milestone in its ongoing journey towards European integration. Since the Euromaidan protests in 2014, Ukraine has undertaken significant political, economic, and judicial reforms to align itself with EU standards. The decision to open accession negotiations reflects the EU’s recognition of these efforts and its willingness to support Ukraine’s continued reform process.

Moldova, on the other hand, has been working towards closer EU integration for many years. The country has signed an Association Agreement with the EU, which includes a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area. The decision to open accession negotiations is a natural progression in Moldova’s EU integration process and a recognition of its commitment to European values and standards.

The European Council’s decision has been welcomed by both Ukraine and Moldova. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his gratitude for the EU’s support and stated that this decision will serve as a powerful incentive for further reforms in Ukraine. Moldovan President Maia Sandu also welcomed the decision, emphasizing the importance of European integration for Moldova’s future development.

However, it is important to note that the EU accession process is a complex and lengthy one. It involves negotiations on various chapters, including political, economic, and legal reforms. The process also requires the approval of all EU member states. While the decision to open accession negotiations is a significant step forward, it does not guarantee immediate EU membership for Ukraine and Moldova.

Nevertheless, the decision to open EU accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova is a clear indication of the EU’s commitment to supporting democratic reforms and European integration in its neighboring countries. It provides a framework for further cooperation and collaboration between the EU and these two Eastern European nations.

In conclusion, the European Council’s decision to open EU accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova is a positive development for both countries and for the European Union as a whole. It reflects the progress made by Ukraine and Moldova in implementing reforms and aligning with EU values. While the road to EU membership is still long and challenging, this decision provides a clear path forward and reinforces the EU’s commitment to supporting democratic reforms and European integration in its neighborhood.

BREAKING:

The European Council has decided to open EU accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova. pic.twitter.com/KX5HaziRUx

— Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) December 14, 2023