Ukraine, Belgium, the Netherlands sign joint declaration
The signing ceremony took place within the framework of the visit of President Volodymyr Zelensky to The Hague. The document was published on the website of the Head of State.
“The Kingdom of Belgium and the Kingdom of the Netherlands reiterate their unwavering support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders, as well their full support to Ukraine’s inherent right to self-defence and to choose its own security arrangements,” reads the declaration.
The signatories reiterate their demand that the Russian Federation immediately, completely, and unconditionally withdraw all of its military forces from the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders, including military or irregular armed units which may be directed or supported by the Russian Federation.
The document notes that Belgium and the Netherlands remain committed to provide Ukraine with the necessary military, humanitarian and financial support to help it prevail against the Russian war of aggression for as long as it takes.
It is also underscored that until Ukraine becomes a member of NATO, Belgium and the Netherlands are committed to supporting Ukraine on its path to further Euro-Atlantic integration and strengthening Ukraine’s capacity to defend itself against the current Russian war of aggression and against any future threat.
“The security of Ukraine is of great importance to the Alliance. Within the framework of the NATO-Ukraine partnership, Belgium and the Netherlands will promote long term NATO interoperability, reform and reconstruction of Ukraine’s defence industry, institution and capacity building. A clear roadmap for the sustainable transition of Ukraine’s armed forces to NATO standards, doctrine and institutions is a priority, as well as sufficient financial support. Ukraine, the Netherlands and Belgium look forward to discussing these issues at the NATO summit in Vilnius in July 2023,” reads the document.
The document also mentions the commitment of the Netherlands and Belgium to holding those guilty of war crimes and other atrocity crimes committed in connection with Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine to account, supporting further sanctions pressure on the Russian Federation, developing international mechanisms to provide compensation for losses, injuries and damages caused by Russian aggression.
As reported, President Zelensky is on an official visit to the Netherlands on Thursday, where he held a meeting and a joint press conference with Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte and Prime Minister of Belgium Alexander de Croo.
