Reforms in fundamental sectors will set the pace for Ukraine’s EU accession negotiations, said the head of the Belgian Foreign Ministry, Hadja Lahbib. In order to join the EU, Ukraine must adapt its legislation to conform with European legislation according to 35 chapters, which are divided into six clusters. The most important cluster, which opens the negotiations and will be the last to close, includes the judiciary and justice system, fundamental human rights, and public procurement.
“Special attention should be paid to judicial reform, the fight against corruption, as well as protection for and non-discriminatory treatment of national minorities,” Lahbib added.
To make progress in these reforms irreversible, the European Commission will regularly monitor Ukraine’s achievements and report on them to the EU Council.
Lahbib also stated that both Kyiv and the bloc will benefit from the process of Ukraine’s accession to the EU.