Ukraine's European integration processes, deepening economic cooperation with the EU and engaging civil society and social partners. These and other important issues of cooperation were discussed by Yuliia Svyrydenko, First vice Prime Minister of Ukraine and Minister of Economy of Ukraine, during a meeting with Oliver Röpke, President of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC).

"Ukraine aspires to become a member of the EU. On this way, the development of civil society and the dialogue between it and the authorities is very important for us. We try to involve representatives of civil society, non-governmental organisations and social partners in discussions on as wide a range of issues in the country as possible. In particular, we are engaged in a dialogue with them in the preparation of the Plan necessary for the implementation of the Ukraine Facility programme on the allocation of EUR 50 billion over the next four years from the EU. It is the civil society that should become the driving force of Ukraine on its way to the EU," said Yuliia Svyrydenko.

In his turn, EESC President Oliver Röpke noted that civil society and social partners play a vital role in building resilience for democracy, monitoring human rights and supporting European integration.

As a reminder, on 19 September, the EESC decided to involve representatives of civil society from EU candidate countries in the Committee's advisory work by appointing "Enlargement Candidate Members". The EESC has become the first EU institution to take such an initiative and open its doors to the candidate countries, facilitating their progressive and concrete integration into the EU. The members will participate in the preparation of the EESC conclusions and the enlargement plenary sessions.

"The EU candidate countries need more than just empty words. They need practical action. We will now work more closely than ever with civil society in the candidate countries, to enable the candidate members to start operating from 2024. Together we will rebuild Ukraine, laying the foundation for a strong and dynamic civil society. Ukraine's European future begins today," said Oliver Röpke.

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Candidate members will be selected by the end of the year. The selection process will be conducted in cooperation with civil society organisations in these countries, as well as international and European civil society organisations. It will take into account their experience and independence, as well as ensure that gender balance and representation of youth organisations.

The candidate members for enlargement will start their advisory work in 2024, contributing to EESC decision-making.