Ukraine and European Commission to hold talks on extension of transport visa-free regime
The European Union Council has adopted a decision allowing negotiations with Ukraine regarding the extension of the transport visa-free regime, according to the press service of the Ministry of Infrastructure of Ukraine.
According to the ministry, the EU Council has approved a mandate for negotiations on a transport visa-free regime.
The Ministry of Infrastructure reminded that the European Commission proposes to extend the Agreement on the liberalization of cargo transportation between Ukraine and the European Union for at least 12 months with the possibility of further extension for another six months.
If such a decision is supported by the European Union, bilateral transportation without special permits will continue at least until June 2025.
"We welcome the EU's decision to start official negotiations on extending the Agreement. It is important for us to preserve the possibility of carrying out cargo transportation without permits, as it directly affects the ability to export Ukrainian goods, thus supporting our economy and importing what our state needs," emphasized Vice Prime Minister for Communities, Territories, and Infrastructure Development Oleksandr Kubrakov.
According to him, it is important for Ukraine that the decision to extend such an Agreement be adopted by the end of June and not restrict Ukrainian carriers.
What preceded it
EC's proposal to extend the transport visa-free regime includes several nuances for carriers.
In particular, they will be required to carry documents confirming their right to carry out international transportation.
The proposal also provides for the termination of the transport visa-free regime in a specific geographical region in case of a significant violation.