EU to open first chapter of accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova on Monday
An intergovernmental conference will launch negotiations on the first cluster of EU laws, covering fundamentals. The breakthrough came after Hungary's new government dropped its opposition.
On Monday, an intergovernmental conference with Ukraine and Moldova will officially begin negotiations on the first cluster of EU laws, known as the "Fundamentals." This cluster covers issues related to the judiciary, institutions, public procurement systems, financial control, and statistics.
The talks are now possible because Hungary's new government agreed to lift its block, which had been maintained under former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. EU leaders stated that this is a recognition of the commitment and hard work of both countries in advancing reforms, even amid great difficulties. They emphasized that enlargement is a strategic choice in a world of increasing uncertainty.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine is defending itself and all of Europe, and that opening the first negotiation chapter is significant political and moral support. Moldovan President Maia Sandu welcomed the move and confirmed Moldova's readiness to open all chapters and continue reforms.
The shift in Hungary's position followed an agreement with Ukraine on the rights of the Hungarian ethnic minority. Ukraine's government on Friday approved amendments to its minority protection plan, coordinated with EU member states.
However, new Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar stated that Hungary does not support a fast-track procedure. He warned that opening the first chapter is only the first step in a long and complex process. If Ukraine manages to close all 33 chapters within the next 10 to 15 years, Hungary will hold a referendum on its EU membership. He cited Montenegro, whose accession process began in 2012 and is still ongoing.
