Prime Minister of Spain addresses Ukrainian lawmakers

Prime Minister of Spain Pedro Sánchez delivered a speech in the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine.

The official stressed that Ukraine would always be on the agenda during his country's presidency of the Council of Europe, Ukrinform reports.

Sánchez noted that Spain would preside over the Council of Europe during the second part of 2023. "We cannot forget that the Maidan and Ukraine's determination to join the European Union were the basis of today's situation. And the aspiration to join the European Union Member States involves joining the principles of democracy, freedom of speech, freedom of movement, and the realization of sovereignty. Perhaps, it was too much for Putin, he could not accept it, and that is why he decided to react in the form of this invasion, explaining it only with his propaganda," the Prime Minister of Spain said.

He emphasized that Spain condemned Russian aggression and welcomed Ukraine's right to the European dream. That is why, according to the PM, the Kingdom of Spain strongly supported granting Ukraine the EU candidate status. Sánchez noted that a lot of changes and reforms needed to be implemented in the process of European integration. In this regard, in his opinion, the work of the ninth convocation of the Verkhovna Rada will be extremely important. "You have already passed several laws, and we certainly welcome your efforts, we welcome all the progress that has been made. And we will accompany Ukraine on the path to full integration so that your dream becomes a reality. During our presidency, Ukraine will always be on the agenda," Sánchez emphasized.

As reported, Prime Minister of Spain Pedro Sánchez made an unannounced visit to Kyiv on Thursday morning.

Video: Rada TV channel

Photo: rada.gov.ua