This historic decision recognises all three countries’ chosen path towards EU membership and is a testament to European shared values of a free world and liberal order.

The announcement signals the beginning of a new phase on the path of European integration for all three countries and is a victory for Ukrainian, Moldovan and Georgian citizens, who have advocated and fought for a European future for their countries for a long time. The current momentum should be maintained and all efforts directed towards creating optimal conditions for successful reform.

We call on the European Union, its member states and all international partners to provide to all three countries, the strong political and financial support needed to pursue and complete credible and meaningful reforms, as well as to benefit from further economic integration and legislative harmonisation with the EU.

As it continues to fight a horrific war against unprovoked Russian aggression, special resources should be should be directed to Ukraine. Humanitarian aid and military support should be scaled up substantially. Adequate financial relief should be provided alongside assistance to support the resilience of its institutions and future reconstruction.

We call on the governments of Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia to work in close cooperation with civil society organisations while pursuing a reform agenda that will lead to further alignment with the EU acquis. Cooperation with civil society should be the foundation of successful implementation of the necessary reforms that will bring Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia closer to the European Union.

We call on the European Union and its member states to continue close cooperation with the entire Eastern Partnership region and to maintain a strong regional, multilateral framework. The Eastern Partnership has been an invaluable initiative for European-minded civil society across all six countries and, going forward, more cooperation is needed, not less. Democratic actors in Belarus, Armenia and Azerbaijan deserve sustained and unwavering support as they continue to advocate for democratic reform, freedom and rule of law.

The Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum will continue to be a key supporter of the renewed path towards European integration for Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia and of the democratic reform of all countries of the Eastern Partnership.