First Deputy Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Oleksandr Korniienko spoke at the 20th Anniversary GLOBSEC Forum, which took place on 12–14 June 2025 in Prague, Czech Republic.
For two decades, the Forum has established itself as one of Europe's most influential platforms for shaping global security and stability. This year, it brought together over 1,500 participants from more than 70 countries.
In its 20th anniversary year, the GLOBSEC Forum focused on global challenges, including geopolitical dynamics within the European Union, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and instability in the Middle East. Participants discussed issues of energy security, defense, migration, competitiveness, and the impact of changes in leading European countries. Significant attention was given to the growing role of Global South countries and global technological competition.
In his speech, Oleksandr Korniienko emphasized the specifics of Ukraine’s European integration and the mutual opportunities presented by EU enlargement. He noted that Ukraine is the first candidate country to have established 36 negotiation groups comprising over 200 Members of Parliament. This approach allows for Parliament’s involvement at the screening stage, helping to avoid further disputes during the adoption of complex but necessary eurointegration laws.
The First Deputy Speaker provided concrete examples of Ukraine’s progress: over 75% of the Association Agreement provisions have already been implemented, and the Ukraine Facility plan - linking reforms to financing - was fully completed within a year. He emphasized that today the Verkhovna Rada is focused on just two priorities: supporting the military and preparing for EU membership. “Eighty percent of the bills on the agenda for the next plenary week relate to European integration,” he stressed.
Oleksandr Korniienko also noted that Ukraine is building a modern economy - “green,” technological, and aligned with EU standards. He highlighted the necessity of public administration reform, digitalization, and the development of the civil service. At the same time, he underscored the importance of communicating with citizens about what it means to be an EU member - not only rights but also responsibilities. This is especially crucial for future generations, who must understand the values of a united Europe.
«Ukraine is currently actively advancing along the path of European integration and strives to become a full-fledged member. On one hand, this presents opportunities for the country joining the Union. On the other hand, it also offers the European Union itself the chance to gain new experience. For example, we have made significant progress in the digitalization of services and are ready to share our achievements and expand new practices,» said the First Deputy Speaker.
Oleksandr Korniienko expressed his gratitude to the Forum participants for the productive discussions. «This is an essential platform for finding solutions to global challenges and for advancing together towards development,» he concluded.
