'Yes' to speedy ratification of the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement

"Today’s green light for the extraordinary speedy ratification of the Association Agreement, including the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement, between the EU and Ukraine is a sign of our clear commitment to supporting Ukraine and its European choice", said Vice-Chairman of the EPP Group responsible for Foreign Affairs, Jacek Saryusz-Wolski MEP, after an extraordinary meeting of the Foreign Affairs Committee which gave its consent to the conclusion of the agreement between the EU and Ukraine. The proposal was adopted by an overwhelming majority (49 votes in favour) despite isolated voices opposing the text coming from the extreme right, eurosceptics and communists.

The EPP Group considers that the Association Agreement should be ratified immediately and in parallel by both the EU and Ukraine so that the provisional application of the Agreement, including the trade elements which are important for Ukraine's economy, can start on 1 November.

"We will continue to support Ukraine economically and politically using the means we have at our disposal in the European Parliament. This extraordinary speedy consent for the procedure of the Association Agreement in the European Parliament is another sign of our support and solidarity", added Saryusz-Wolski, also the European Parliament’s Standing Rapporteur on Ukraine.

The final adoption of the text will take place next week at the EP’s plenary session in Strasbourg.