European Union - Catherine Colonna’s participation in the informal meeting of European Union foreign ministers with Ukraine in Kyiv (2 october 2023)

Mme Catherine Colonna, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, is taking part in the informal meeting of European Union foreign ministers with Ukraine, which is being held exceptionally in Kyiv. As the Minister has pointed out, this first is a sign of the European Union’s resolute support for Ukraine.

Building on the efforts made in the high-level week of the 74th United Nations General Assembly, the ministers will talk to their Ukrainian colleague Mr Dmytro Kuleba about continuing Europe’s support for Ukraine in every field. As the European Union pledged at the European Council of 29-30 June 2023 and in the declaration of 12 July 2023, this support is baked into the long term. Mme Colonna will emphasize the importance of defining the parameters for lasting support, particularly at military level, based on Ukraine’s needs.

Mme Colonna will call for progress on establishing a form of European backing for Ukraine’s reforms and reconstruction that supports Ukraine’s prospects for joining the European Union.

The Minister will also recall the significant efforts made by the European Union, particularly through the Solidarity Lanes, to ensure Ukraine is capable of exporting its agricultural production and contributing to global food security. The ministers will discuss the support of global partners, as Russia continues to turn food security into a political weapon.