Enlargement is the only way for the EU to become stronger. Ukraine’s accession will bring advantages and not become a burden for the European Union.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba stated this at the ministerial conference “A larger, stronger Union – making the European Union fit for enlargement and candidate countries fit for accession”, which is taking place today in Berlin with the participation of foreign ministers from a number of EU member states and candidate countries.

The Foreign Minister emphasized that Ukraine is making significant efforts and achieving tangible results in reforming the country. Reforms are vital for Ukrainian society and they make Ukraine stronger and more enduring.

“Ukraine’s accession to the European Union will mean strengthening of European security, not its weakening. Ukraine will become an added value, not a burden for the EU. russia’s aggression against Ukraine showed that the EU can be strong and act decisively, but reforming the EU should not demotivate new member states or delay their accession,” the Minister said.

Dmytro Kuleba underscored that the enlargement process should not become a hostage to the EU’s internal reforms. Internal reforms of the Union and electoral processes in individual countries should not affect the dynamics of negotiations on the accession of new member states.

“Ukrainians now have the highest optimism about the European project as such, they are committed to European values and principles. This historic moment and unprecedented level of support is not to be missed. This potential should be used to bring more positive changes to the EU,” said Dmytro Kuleba.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Kuleba stressed that the EU citizens themselves would be the first to benefit from the enlargement as it would mean strengthening the capabilities of the common market, human rights and the rule of law and make the EU a stronger player in the world.