Oleksandr Korniyenko: European Integration Reforms Must Deliver Tangible Results for Ukrainians and the Economy
09 November 2026, 14:58
First Deputy Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Oleksandr Korniyenko took part in the event titled “Beyond the Headlines: Assessing Ukraine’s Progress as Candidate State to the EU.” The discussion focused on the findings of the European Commission's Report within the Enlargement Package and further tasks for Ukraine toward its path to the EU.
The First Deputy Speaker emphasized that the European Commission’s Report needs thorough and comprehensive analysis, as every formulation and emphasis in the document carries weight.
"We must discuss it with our European partners, clarify expectations, and define concrete steps in response to their comments, objectively acknowledging both the progress achieved and the challenges that still require work," noted Oleksandr Korniyenko.
According to him, this year’s report reflects the dynamics of change over a longer timeframe. Throughout this period, governments, parliamentary convocations, and negotiating teams have changed, and Ukraine found itself amidst a full-scale war; nevertheless, its drive to become a member of the European Union and work toward this goal remains unwavering.
The First Deputy Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada paid dedicated attention to parliamentary work and building consensus on necessary euro-integration decisions.
He announced that representatives from all parliamentary factions and groups have been delegated to the working group tasked with fulfilling the interim accession benchmarks. This creates a solid baseline for discussing diverse perspectives and drafting consensus-based solutions.
The First Deputy Speaker also noted the results of consistent efforts in key sectors, particularly education, healthcare, and public administration reform. At the same time, according to him, Ukraine must continue fulfilling recommendations on the rule of law, address the functioning of democratic institutions, and account for wartime realities when planning post-war objectives.
Oleksandr Korniyenko highlighted the alignment of EU legislative approximation with practical opportunities for the Ukrainian economy as another critical priority.
"Legislative approximation with the EU must be accompanied by practical opportunities for the Ukrainian economy—such as market access and trade arrangements that support business operations amidst the war," he emphasized.
The First Deputy Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada also underscored the importance of delivering concrete projects in local communities, allowing citizens to witness the tangible results of European support in their daily lives.
In conclusion, Oleksandr Korniyenko expressed gratitude to European partners, the Government, parliamentary committees, civil society, and local experts who work daily toward Ukraine’s European integration.
He noted that the network of professionals driving this process continues to expand, strengthening the foundation for further reforms and advancing Ukraine’s progress toward European Union membership.