Ukrainian, Austrian Leaders Discuss EU Accession, Peace Efforts

Ukrainian, Austrian Leaders Discuss EU Accession, Peace Efforts

In a recent meeting held in Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Austrian National Council President Wolfgang Sobotka discussed multiple issues, strengthening the ties between the two nations. President Zelensky expressed his appreciation for Austria’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and European aspirations. According to him, the recognition of Ukraine as part of Europe serves as a significant source of motivation for the country’s soldiers.

(Read Also: Ukraine Approves Key Step Towards EU Membership)

Seven-Step Recommendations towards EU Accession

The leaders also deliberated on the seven-step recommendations proposed by the European Commission for Ukraine to begin negotiations for European Union accession. They further discussed the economic cooperation between Ukraine and Austria, focusing specifically on the potential involvement of Austrian businesses in Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts. Austria’s readiness to back the implementation of Zelensky’s peace formula was acknowledged by the Ukrainian President.

(Read Also: President Zelensky Appoints Andriy Shevchenko as Advisor)

Zelensky’s Peace Formula

Introduced by Zelensky at the G20 summit in November 2022, the 10-point peace plan aims at ending the war with Russia. In this context, Austria’s support for its implementation marks a significant step towards achieving peace in the region.

Wolfgang Sobotka, the president of the National Council (the lower house of the Austrian Parliament) since 2017, was part of an Austrian parliamentary delegation that arrived in Kyiv on September 25.

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