Ukraine's accession to NATO: Shmyhal names key issue
"We have been given a very important political signal that NATO's door remains open to Ukraine. This is a literal quote from Mr. Stoltenberg at our joint press conference following the meeting. And it actually sets out the whole essence and meaning of our negotiations," the PM said in an interview with Ukrinform.
The only and key issue is the transition of the Ukrainian army to NATO standards, Shmyhal noted.
According to him, "as soon as Ukraine is ready to confirm the full transition, the issue of joining NATO will immediately arise. As for the Membership Action Plan (MAP), we insist on a parallel course with Georgia, where the relevant work is also actively carried out."
"Today, there are three Eastern Partnership countries that are best prepared in terms of the MAP - Moldova, Georgia and Ukraine. Georgia is slightly ahead in this trio, and it is very important that we overcome this gap and obtain the Membership Action Plan with it. This year we will have a series of joint exercises with NATO, which will provide an opportunity to demonstrate our level," the prime minister said.
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.
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