Ruslan Stefanchuk: Ukraine can become for the world what America became when it was opened

Informatiion Department
Published on 14 June 2022, at 17:49

Ukraine clearly understands that candidate status is the starting point for further complex paths to full membership. This was emphasized by the Chairman of The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, Ruslan Stefanchuk, during a working meeting with the Federal Chancellor of the Republic of Austria, Karl Nehammer.

Ruslan Stefanchuk noted that the most valuable thing between partners is sincerity and openness.

"Not only can Ukraine take something from the EU, but Ukraine can also give a lot to the EU," he said, focusing on Ukraine's agricultural opportunities, open land market, unique geographical location, logistics routes, and powerful IT developments.

Ukraine can become, in fact, what America became when it was discovered. This is a kind of "terra incognita" that we still need to learn together. That is why we invite Austria, the Austrian market, to join such investments, and together we will do even better. But the number-one task is to end this war," Ruslan Stefanchuk stressed.

In addition, during the meeting, it was mentioned that the progress in the accession to the European Union requires the fulfillment of the established criteria. Austria will express its opinion after the European Commission considers this issue.

For his part, Karl Nehammer noted that Austria could not participate directly in military aid due to neutrality but actively helped financially, particularly with helmets and protective equipment. He also noted that Ukraine could count on quick, unburdened assistance.

"Now it is crucial to launch initiatives to rebuild Ukraine together with the United States and the United Kingdom – in this regard, there will be Austria's full support and participation," he said.

The Federal Chancellor of the Republic of Austria, Karl Nehammer, emphasized: "Ukraine was, is and will remain Europe."

"We cannot choose geography. We know that Ukraine will be near Russia even after the war. But today, we can change history and the future. And we really want history to defeat geography," the Chairman of The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine emphasized.