Zelensky meets with speaker of Portuguese parliament
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed with the Speaker of the Parliament of Portugal Augusto Santos Silva the interaction between the countries on the path of Ukraine's integration into the EU and expectations from the July NATO summit, the needs of Ukrainian defenders, and the peace formula.
This was discussed during the meeting in Kyiv, the press service of the head of state reports.
The President thanked Portugal for the decisions and practical steps taken to support Ukraine since the beginning of the full-scale aggression of the Russian Federation. In particular, the importance of Portugal's support for the decision to grant our country the status of a candidate for EU membership, the Euro-Atlantic course of Ukraine, and the strengthening of Ukraine's armed forces were noted.
Zelensky also expressed gratitude to the Portuguese partners for providing shelter to tens of thousands of Ukrainians who were forced to seek salvation from the war.
"Most importantly, I would like to thank your society, which, thanks to the actions of the government and parliament, was united in supporting Ukraine and Ukrainians. This is a very important signal of faith in Ukraine," he said.
The president discussed with the speaker of the Portuguese parliament the interaction between Ukraine and Portugal on the path of Ukraine's integration into the European Union and NATO.
The head of state emphasized the importance of starting negotiations on joining the EU by the end of this year.
"This will be a powerful incentive for Ukrainian society and Ukrainian defenders, who have been restraining the aggressor for more than 14 months," Zelensky emphasized.
The president also outlined Ukraine's expectations from the Vilnius NATO Summit, in particular regarding the creation of a mechanism of effective security guarantees for the period before our country becomes a member of the Alliance.
Particular attention was paid to the implementation of the Ukrainian peace formula. The president thanked Portugal for its support of the peace initiatives of our country, in particular within the UN.
"Ukraine is interested in involving as wide a range of countries as possible in holding the Global Peace Summit," he said and expressed hope that Portugal would actively support Ukraine's efforts to prepare for this summit.
Zelensky thanked for the security support provided by Portugal, including the transfer of Leopard 2 tanks. He informed the delegation of the Portuguese Parliament about the priority needs of Ukrainian defenders in the context of preparing for a counteroffensive. The President expressed hope that the Portuguese government and parliament will be able to make the necessary decisions to strengthen the capabilities of Ukrainian defenders on the front line.
During the meeting, the willingness of the Ukrainian state to strengthen the political dialogue with the Portuguese Republic was emphasized, and high-level bilateral measures for the near future were discussed.
For reference:
As the full–scale war in Ukraine continues to take its toll, Portugal has been at the forefront of international support for the country. Portugal has made a number of financial, humanitarian and military commitments in order to assist Ukraine in its struggle for peace and stability.
Portugal has committed a total of €485 million, equivalent to 0.229% of its gross domestic product. Of this, €164 million has been allocated to humanitarian aid, making Portugal the fourth highest contributor in terms of GDP. The remaining €250 million has been put towards financial assistance, which makes Portugal the twelfth highest contributor in terms of GDP. In addition to these commitments, Portugal has also provided €71 million in military aid, representing 0.033% of its GDP.
In making such generous commitments, Portugal has shown its unwavering support for Ukraine and its fight for peace. Through its financial, humanitarian and military contributions, Portugal is helping Ukraine to stand strong in the face of the full-scale war.
