Ukraine seeks to develop close cooperation with the European Union in the format of the Eastern Partnership (EaP) initiative. Vice Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine Ivanna Klympush-Tsintsadze made this statement during a meeting with Johannes Hahn, EU Commissioner for the European Neighborhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations on the margins of the Davos Economic Forum (Switzerland).

The Vice Prime Minister thanked the EU Commissioner for his strong support of Ukraine, as well as for the EU's solidarity with Ukraine amid Russian aggression, and support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our state. She also thanked European partners for tangible support of Ukraine's European choice and assistance in implementing domestic reforms related to the implementation of the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement. According to the Vice Prime Minister, the common working document "Eastern Partnership - 20 expected achievements by 2020" should serve as a road map for a goal-oriented cooperation with the European Union  in the future.

"We have made significant progress in the field of harmonization of digital markets and adherence to the criteria for visa liberalization, and our efforts  are felt by people in many areas," the Vice Prime Minister said.

According to her, the partnership on mobility and youth and cultural exchange remain key elements of the rapprochement of Ukrainian and EU citizens. This integration can significantly contribute to the opening of the  Eastern Partnership European School in Ukraine, following the example of a similar school opened in Georgia.

"The creation of the first Eastern Partnership European School in Tbilisi has become a significant event in 2018. We propose to apply a similar approach to establishment of European School in Ukraine ", the Vice Prime Minister noted.

Apart from that, Ivanna Klympush-Tsintsadze urged Johannes Hahn to work together on promoting idea of opening academic programmes of the College of Europe (a postgraduate institute of European studies). Such an educational institution will not only enhance educational opportunities but also promote multicultural understanding, tolerance, fundamental values and better understanding of the European Union. Hundreds of Ukrainian students study at the European College in Natolin (Poland) and Bruges (Belgium) since 2012. However, it is extremely important to develop common mechanisms that will encourage young people to return to Ukraine and invest their knowledge in its development.

"Taking into account  preliminary discussions about the establishment of a representation of the College of Europe in Ukraine, I believe that your personal support is crucial for promoting this process. In this regard, I kindly request your support in the creation and improvement of such educational institutions in Ukraine within the framework of the Eastern Partnership policy, "  Ivanna Klympush-Tsintsadze stressed  and handed the corresponding letter to the Commissioner.