Emmanuel Macron reiterates his support for the start of accession negotiations between the EU and Ukraine
The French president reiterated to his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday France's “support” for the start of accession negotiations to the European Union, which Hungary rejects. During a telephone conversation, Emmanuel Macron welcomed the adoption by the Ukrainian Parliament on December 8 and 9 of several crucial legislative texts, particularly related to the rights of national minorities, judicial reform and the fight against corruption. reports the Elysée. “Ukraine thus shows its determination to respond promptly to the recommendations of the European Commission,” the French presidency added.
The EU heads of state and government are due to decide on Thursday and Friday whether to start accession negotiations with Ukraine, but Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban remains inflexible. “Ukraine is considered one of the most corrupt countries in the world. It's a joke ! “We cannot make the decision to start an accession negotiation process,” he said after meeting Mr Macron in Paris last Thursday.
The French president also reiterated “France's unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of the war of aggression waged by Russia,” the Elysee Palace said. For his part, Mr. Zelensky is making it known At that he informed his French counterpart about military developments at the front. “We discussed our priority needs and the next French military aid package, which will significantly strengthen Ukraine’s firepower,” he added.