(MENAFN- UkrinForm) The European Commission said this in a press release seen by Ukrinform.

This year's package reaffirms that the momentum for enlargement stands high on the priority agenda of the EU and confirms that the accession of new Member States is increasingly within reach.

"Despite Russia's unrelenting war of aggression, Ukraine remains strongly committed to its EU accession path, having successfully completed the screening process and advanced on key reforms," the statement reads.

According to the document, Ukraine has adopted roadmaps on the rule of law, public administration, and the functioning of democratic institutions, as well as an action plan on national minorities, which the Commission assessed positively.

The Commission stressed that Ukraine had met the conditions required to open clusters: one (fundamentals), six (external relations), and two (internal market).

The Commission expects Ukraine to meet the conditions to open the remaining three clusters and works to ensure that the Council is in a position to take forward the opening of all clusters before the end of the year.

"The Ukrainian government has signaled its objective to provisionally close accession negotiations by the end of 2028. The Commission is committed to support this ambitious objective but considers that, to meet it an acceleration of the pace of reforms is required, notably with regards to the fundamentals, in particular rule of law," the report states.

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The document also highlights that gradual integration of the aspiring Members into the Single Market strengthens ties with the Union already before their accession.

"Significant progress has been achieved over the past year. With enlargement as a clear policy goal in this mandate, the Commission is committed to ensuring both the readiness of aspiring members as well as the EU's preparedness to welcome them. To this end, a Communication on in-depth policy reviews and reforms will be presented soon," the report reads.

"We are more committed than ever to turning EU enlargement into a reality. Because a larger Union means a stronger and more influential Europe on the global stage. But it must and will remain a merit-based process. Our package provides specific recommendation to all our partners. And to all of them we say: EU accession is a unique offer. A promise of peace, prosperity and solidarity. With the right reforms and a strong political will, you all can seize this opportunity," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said.

The report notes that to ensure that new Member States continue to safeguard and maintain their track-record on the rule of law, democracy and fundamental rights, future Accession Treaties should contain stronger safeguards against backsliding on commitments made during the accession negotiations.

The Commission also considers that effective communication, as well as countering foreign information manipulation and interference, including disinformation is a strategic imperative.

Finally, the European Commission expressed its readiness to support Member States' effort to further anchor public trust in the process and help enlargement move forward with the legitimacy it needs.

Photo: European Union

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