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EU-Ukraine Summit: Three new cooperation agreements

Strengthening the political connection and its economic integration Of Ukraine with the European UnionEuropean Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Charles Michel and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell confirmed the EU delegation. at a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the 23rd EU-Ukraine summit in Kiev earlier on Tuesday.

“The European Union attaches the utmost importance to its relations with Ukraine. Together we built a special partnership, which is based on mutual solidarity and friendship. We share the commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s political connection and economic integration with the European Union, and we have made progress in many areas. We will continue to work together on the still untapped opportunities offered by the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement. This fact, in parallel with the ongoing unity on the issue of sanctions, proves the commitment of the EU. “Ukraine – a commitment that remains unbroken,” she said. von der Layen.

For his part, Mr. Borel after pointing out that “the EU “Ukraine’s strongest and most reliable strategic partner,” he said. “The EU will continue to strongly support the implementation of the Minsk agreements.”

On the sidelines of the summit, the EU and Ukraine have made progress in a number of key areas of cooperation, with three important new agreements, the Commission said.

Signing of an agreement on air transport

According to the EIA, the European Union and Ukraine have signed a comprehensive air transport agreement, paving the way for a “Common Aviation Area»Between the EU and Ukraine, based on common high standards in key areas such as aviation security, protection against illegal activities and air traffic management. It is an agreement that “will promote market access and offer new opportunities to consumers and airlines on both sides.”

Ukraine, as an aviation market, is becoming increasingly important for the EU, as 2019 was the 13th largest non-EU market, with 9.8 million passengers. Air transport of passengers and goods between Ukraine and the EU have been growing steadily in recent years. This trend only stopped during the COVID crisis.

Ukraine will further align its legislation with EU rules and standards. in aviation, in areas such as aviation security, air traffic management, protection against illegal acts, the environment, economic regulation, competition, consumer protection and other social aspects.

All EU airlines will be able to operate direct flights from anywhere in the EU. to any airport in Ukraine and the same will apply to Ukrainian airlines.

All limits and restrictions on flights between Ukraine and the EU. the provisions on open and fair competition will be lifted and guarantees a level playing field:

“The agreement will facilitate interpersonal contacts and expand trade opportunities and trade between the EU. and Ukraine. It will also be a valuable tool for the implementation of the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement and, in particular, the global and in-depth free trade area. “

Although the agreement must be ratified by both parties before it officially enters into force, it will enter into force with today’s signing.

Ukraine’s association with Horizon Europe program

The summit also provided an opportunity to complete Ukraine’s accession to the Horizon Europe program, the research and innovation program of the EU for the period 2021-2027, as well as with the Euratom research and training program for the period 2021-2025.

Ukrainian researchers and innovators can now participate in these two programs, with a budget of 95.5 billion euros and 1.38 billion euros respectively, under the same conditions as entities of EU Member States.

This cooperation in the fields of science, research and innovation further strengthens the alliance between the EU and the EU. and Ukraine to achieve common priorities, such as the dual green and digital transition.

The Europe Horizons program is one of the main tools available to Europe to implement its strategy for international cooperation. The program is open to researchers and innovators from around the world, who can work with partners in the EU to prepare proposals.

Linking Ukraine to the Creative Europe program

During the summit, Ukraine’s association with the “Creative Europe” program, the EU program, was also finalized. for the support for the cultural and creative sectors for the period 2021-2027.

The new Creative Europe program continues to support and promote cultural heritage, creativity, internationalization, professionalism, innovation and the competitiveness of the cultural and creative sectors.

Ukrainian cultural and creative organizations can now participate in Europe’s € 2.44 billion flagship program, under the same conditions as EU member states.

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