'We are optimistic': Italian MFA on Ukraine's EU accession
Photo: Foreign Affairs of Italy, Antonio Tajani (Getty Images)
At present, it is impossible to accurately predict when Ukraine will become a member of the European Union. This was stated in an interview by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy, Antonio Tajani.
"At this stage, it is impossible to accurately predict when Ukraine will become a member state of the EU. This will depend on the speed at which Ukraine completes alignment with European legislation and standards," he said.
The minister noted that the Ukrainian government has demonstrated a determination to take concrete steps forward at a very rapid pace.
"But we are optimistic because the Ukrainian government has shown a strong commitment and determination to take concrete steps forward at a very fast pace," said the head of the Italian Foreign Ministry.
Tajani emphasized that Italy has always been at the forefront of supporting Ukraine's European integration and welcomes the European Commission's recommendations to start accession negotiations with Ukraine.
"Green light" for Ukraine
On November 8, the European Commission recommended to the EU Council to start negotiations with Ukraine on accession. According to Ursula von der Leyen, Ukraine has already implemented 90% of the reforms expected by the EU. However, Kyiv must continue with further reforms.
However, Hungary has stated that it will oppose the EU starting accession negotiations with Ukraine. Viktor Orban's party submitted a resolution to the parliament against negotiations on Ukraine's accession to the EU.
In Ukraine and Brussels, it is believed that Hungary cannot endlessly block Ukraine's accession to the EU. Ukraine is already negotiating with the Hungarian government to resolve the disputes.
For more information on why Hungary is blocking Ukraine's accession to the European Union and what Orban wants, read the material by RBC-Ukraine.
