European Parliament Supports Candidate Status for Georgia, Ukraine and Moldova

Leaders of political groups in the European Parliament have drafted a joint statement in support of Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia's bid to join the European Union.

"On behalf of the Conference of Presidents, the leaders of the political groups of the European Parliament will address the leaders of the member states and governments, who will meet in Brussels in two weeks to decide on the application of Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia to join the EU.

We must show courage, bravery, and vision in the face of a deteriorating international environment. Changes in geopolitical data require action on our part. By doing so, we adhere to our principles and values. Ukrainians whose homeland is under fierce attack - although Moldovans and Georgians, who are moving towards a brighter future - are waiting for the signal that their place is in the European family. Therefore, this Chamber strongly urges you to grant Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova and Georgia EU candidate status in accordance with Article 49 of the EU Treaty and [their] achievements."

The submitted text is a draft joint statement and it may still be subject to change, however, as a Radio Liberty correspondent on EU affairs informs us, key issues, including the requirement to grant candidate status, will remain in the text. It should be noted that the Union of Leaders of Political Groups is not involved in the process of granting candidate status and their support is only a call to the European Commission to take the appropriate decision.