European Union figures have lent their help to Ukraine becoming a member of the bloc because the Czech Republic commemorates 20 years of European Union Member State standing with an occasion at Prague Fortress within the capital. Key figures say that the continent won’t be “divided”.
The Czech Republic – in addition to Slovakia, Hungary, Poland and 6 different European states – turned a member of the European Union on Could 1, 2004. The central European nation celebrated the 20-year milestone with a star-studded ceremony at Prague Fortress within the capital.
Prime Minister Petr Fiala reiterated Czechia help for the enlargement of the EU to incorporate the Western Balkans, Ukraine and Moldova. “Some international locations have been in search of entry for a really very long time, and we should be clear and never play any faux sport with them. In the event that they meet the situations, the principles, then we must always settle for them,” he stated.
“Allow us to give them this opportunity and allow us to benefit from the alternatives that enlargement will deliver.“
Czech President Petr Pavel stated the European Union is based on a foundation of “mutual respect” and shared curiosity. “Membership of the European Union and NATO is the unquestionable basis of our freedom, prosperity and safety,” he stated.
Germany President Frank-Walter Steinmeier additionally informed the group that European states can reply collectively to threats towards the bloc, and that Ukraine is taken into account an “integral half” of the continent. “The states that need to reside collectively peacefully and sovereignly in a united Europe may give a solution to this assault,” he stated.
“And the reply? We help Ukraine as an integral a part of Europe and as a future member of Europe. And right here too, our power is performing collectively. We can’t let ourselves be worn down or divided.“
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made an impassioned video speech televised on the occasion, saying it’s an “honour” and a “dream” for international locations to be thought of a part of the European household. “Twenty years in the past this dream turned a actuality for Czechia and I’m positive it should quickly change into a actuality for Ukraine,” he stated.
Ukraine utilized for EU membership in 2022 and was granted candidate standing. EU leaders and Kiev are presently present process accession negotiations.
European Fee President Ursula von der Leyen was additionally in Prague for the event. She spoke to reporters whereas touring the Czechoslovak Group firm facility: a enterprise specialising within the manufacturing of defence, aerospace, ammunition, automotive and railway trade merchandise.
Czechia’s navy industries has been “essential” supporting Ukraine because it defends itself towards Russia’s ongoing invasion, von der Leyen stated.
“They’ve delivered and are delivering the a lot wanted navy functionality to Ukraine in order that Ukraine can defend itself towards Russia’s struggle aggression.”