European Integration Prospects and Local Community Development – Oleksandr Korniienko Participates in the International Partnership Forum «Friends of Ukraine»
The First Deputy Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, Oleksandr Korniienko, took part in the International Partnership Forum «Friends of Ukraine,» held with the aim of fostering cooperation between Ukrainian communities and international partners.
The event gathered representatives from over ten countries and hundreds of participants from various regions of Ukraine. The main topics of discussion included the reconstruction of our state and its accession to the European Union.
The forum organizers — the Mayors' Club and the volunteer movement "Dobrobat" — emphasized that over ten years of war, including three years of full-scale invasion, Ukraine has bravely fought for its right to a dignified European future, alongside communities in countries such as Spain, Denmark, Germany, and Poland. Despite all challenges, Ukraine is confidently moving forward with a clear goal — to become part of the European Union. The importance of support from international partners was highlighted, along with the need to expand cooperation networks between Ukrainian and European communities — particularly in the form of sister cities and joint projects between hospitals, civil society organizations, and other entities. The significant role of the Mayors' Club — a co-organizer of the event, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year and brings together over 600 community leaders — was also emphasized in this process.
The organizers appealed to the European guests, urging them to share stories about Ukraine in their communities and showcase examples of partnerships that demonstrate Ukrainians' worthiness to be part of the EU. The forum was described as a place where languages, flags, and partnerships unite in friendship, and the need to build horizontal connections now, without waiting for Ukraine’s official membership in the European Union, was emphasized.
«It is truly important to have a platform for uniting our efforts in search for new solutions and opportunities - to address all challenges, build a strong state, and achieve European integration goals. Communities have already done and continue to do everything possible to ensure that Ukraine’s resilience not only persists but also strengthens,» noted Oleksandr Korniienko.
Forum participants discussed what EU membership would bring to Ukraine. According to the First Deputy Speaker, today Ukraine has thousands of projects that need to be implemented together — at all levels, in close cooperation with European partners.
On behalf of the Verkhovna Rada, Oleksandr Korniienko thanked the organizers for holding this important Forum and expressed gratitude to Ukrainians who, despite all the challenges, continue working and striving for development at the local level. Creating jobs, assisting internally displaced persons, and supporting local culture and economy are aspects that local governments are actively implementing to strengthen the country’s resilience.
Oleksandr Korniienko emphasized that Ukraine's accession to the EU should not just be a declaration but should lead to real changes that will raise living standards across the country — from large cities to the smallest communities. It is crucial that this process includes specific steps to improve living conditions at the local level, particularly through deepened cooperation with European partners via programs such as Twinning.
The First Deputy Speaker emphasized that Ukraine's EU accession is a historic opportunity, which became more tangible after russia's full-scale invasion. He highlighted that since then, Ukraine has quickly received candidate status and is already progressing through important stages of negotiations with the European Union. Particularly significant is the technical support from the European Commission, which is actively working on analyzing Ukrainian legislation and assisting in reforms.
In a question-and-answer format, Oleksandr Korniienko discussed with community representatives issues regarding local self-government powers, the development of international cooperation among communities as a tool of public diplomacy, financial capacity of territorial communities, attracting specialists, infrastructure restoration, and improving administrative and territorial structure.
Separately, the First Vice-Speaker expressed gratitude to the international community representatives for their participation in the Forum and clear support for Ukraine in its confrontation with russian aggression and its path toward European integration. He also thanked partners for their courage in standing with Ukraine during this difficult time, emphasizing the importance of partnerships to support cities and communities, as well as for the exchange of experiences. "These connections are crucial not only for the development of traditional cooperation but also for strengthening our joint efforts on the way to peace and a European future," he added.