Ukraine and European Commission tackle progress of climate reforms in the EU integration process at COP31

Ukraine and the European Commission discussed the progress of climate reforms, in particular preparations for introducing a national greenhouse gas emissions trading system (ETS) and further alignment of Ukrainian legislation with EU norms.

These issues were key at a meeting between Oleksandr Krasnolutskyi, Deputy Minister of Economy and Environment of Ukraine, and Jan Dusík, Deputy Director-General of the European Commission's Directorate-General for Climate Action (DG CLIMA), on the sidelines of COP31.

The meeting took place as part of the European Commission's dialogue with EU candidate countries. The parties also reviewed the findings of the Commission's latest report on Ukraine as regards climate policy.

They focused separately on preparations for introducing the ETS. Oleksandr Krasnolutskyi reported on work on the relevant draft law, which has already been sent to DG CLIMA for expert comments. Ukraine expects to receive the Commission's recommendations promptly so it can improve the draft law further.

"One of our key priorities is preparing to introduce a national greenhouse gas emissions trading system. We must ensure it complies with European rules, prepare the responsible institutions and create clear conditions for businesses. At this stage, the Commission's expert recommendations are especially important to us, so that we can take them into account when finalizing the draft law and preparing for the system's launch," said Oleksandr Krasnolutskyi.

Ukraine's institutional capacity was also discussed. Strengthening the responsible bodies, developing expertise and securing the necessary resources are important preconditions for effectively implementing EU climate legislation and meeting European integration commitments.

Ukraine continues its work on climate reforms and counts on further close cooperation with the European Commission to carry them out.
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