Zelensky to Stoltenberg: Our immediate goal is MAP

President Volodymyr Zelensky assures that Ukraine is serious about reforms in the defense sector, and insists that the next goal of the state is to obtain NATO’s Membership Action Plan (MAP).

The head of state wrote this on his Twitter account.

“Pleased to hear from Jens Stoltenberg that the door of NATO is open for Ukraine. Grateful that you personally and the NATO members support us in NATO membership aspirations. Our immediate goal is MAP. We are serious about reforms, as they are first of all enhancing our defense sector," the tweet reads.

The president also stressed that cooperation with NATO is crucial for Ukraine. "We are reinforcing our army by adhering to Alliance’s standards, sharing practical experience, developing strategic partnership and friendship," he explained.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg previously tweeted that NATO strongly supports Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. “We discussed the importance of reforms and the security situation in the Black Sea region. We remain committed to strengthening our close partnership,” he wrote.

As Ukrinform reported, during a press conference following talks with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal in Brussels on February 9, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that NATO Allies recognize Ukraine as a potential candidate for NATO membership and support Ukrainian efforts to join the Alliance.

On June 12, 2020, the North Atlantic Council recognized Ukraine as an Enhanced Opportunities Partner.

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