Latvian Saeima supports start of Ukraine's EU membership talks

This is stated in the press service of the Latvian Saeima.

"Latvia has a special responsibility to remind its partners in the European Union how important it is to strengthen support for those societies that stand for freedom, democracy, the rule of law and human rights. Despite Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine and ongoing hybrid warfare operations in Moldova, these countries have done a great job of moving even closer to the European Union, both in values and governance. The Seimas statement will significantly strengthen this message to other member states," said Edmunds Cepurītis, Chairman of the Seimas European Affairs Committee.

In the statement, the deputies call on other member states to support the European Commission's recommendations and approve the start of accession negotiations by the end of this year.

The parliamentarians also call on the European Commission and the Council of the European Union to immediately prepare and approve a framework for negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova.

In turn, the two candidate countries are encouraged to continue implementing the necessary reforms that will bring them closer to the EU.

In the statement, the Saeima confirms that Latvia is ready to provide the necessary support to Ukraine and Moldova in implementing reforms on the path to full membership in the European Union.

• On February 28, 2022, Ukraine applied to the European Union for immediate accession under the special procedure. On June 23, 2022, Ukraine was granted candidate status for EU membership.
• On November 8, 2023, the European Commission recommended starting negotiations on Ukraine's accession to the EU.