In spring, the European Commission will preliminarily assess Ukraine’s progress in implementing the seven recommendations necessary to start negotiations on Ukraine’s EU membership.

This is stated in the EU Council conclusions on the enlargement process. The relevant decision was adopted on December 13, 2022 at a meeting of EU ministers.

“This is an important decision to ensure the high dynamics of Ukraine’s European integration process, as well as to prepare for the start of membership negotiations,” said Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine Olha Stefanishyna.

The Conclusions state that the EU Council takes note of the European Commission’s intention to provide an update on Ukraine’s progress in implementing the European Commission’s recommendations in spring 2023, in addition (without prejudice) to the comprehensive regular reporting on EU enlargement.

The Council noted the considerable efforts that Ukraine has demonstrated to achieve the objectives set out in the European Commission’s candidate status recommendations, as well as the significant progress in the overall reform process.

“The Council welcomes Ukraine’s reform efforts in such difficult times, and encourages the country to continue on this path,” the Conclusions read.

The Conclusions also provide for the development of a roadmap by the European Commission on the next steps to facilitate Ukraine’s access to the EU Single Market, using the full potential of the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the European Union.