Ukraine Initiates Consultations with EU on Security Guarantees
Date: 2023-12-04 Author: Dima Zakharov Categories: POLICY
The Deputy Head of the Office of the President, Igor Zhovkva, has commenced the first round of consultations with the Deputy Secretary-General of the European External Action Service, Charles Frize, focusing on peace, security, and defense issues within the EU collective security guarantees. This move follows the Joint Declaration by G7 in support of Ukraine dated July 12, 2023.
"Mere Ukrainian membership in the EU itself is a robust security assurance for our nation and the European community at large. We highly value discussing concrete steps at this juncture to fortify our joint security and bolster Ukraine's resilience," Zhovkva mentioned during the meeting.
The discussions encompassed perspectives on future EU security guarantees, particularly emphasizing the security-defense segment. Zhovkva acknowledged the substantial contribution of the European Union to enhancing Ukraine's security and defense capabilities, notably through support to the Ukrainian Armed Forces via the European Peace Fund and the activities of the EU mission providing military assistance to Ukraine.
Additionally, Zhovkva, on behalf of the President of Ukraine, presented Frize with the state award – the Order "For Merit" of the III degree – in recognition of his substantial contribution to strengthening and supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
As previously reported, during the NATO summit in Vilnius on July 12, G7 leaders endorsed a Joint Declaration in support of Ukraine. The document highlighted endeavors towards specific bilateral long-term commitments and agreements in the realm of security.
