The European Commission is planning to soon submit a proposal to the Council of the EU to amend the Draft EU Common Position for Cluster 5, taking into account the proposed special conditions for Ukrainian agriculture.
Source: a senior EU official familiar with the preparations for opening the clusters speaking to a European Pravda correspondent in Brussels on condition of anonymity
Details: When asked by the European Pravda correspondent whether the European Commission intends to amend the draft common negotiating position for Cluster 5 prior to its opening, the official confirmed that a relevant proposal was being prepared.
Quote: "As for the draft common position, you know that it is adopted by the EU Council. The European Commission will make a proposal to the Council to amend this draft so that the Council can take it into account when making its decision, which we hope will be finalised in December."
Details: The senior official added that the European Commission has not yet submitted the relevant amendments to the Council of the EU.
Quote: "We haven't submitted them yet. We will do so very soon."
Details: According to them, the final decision on amendments to the common negotiating position will be made by the EU Council.
Background: As European Pravda reported, in early October, the European Commission proposed establishing special mechanisms for integrating Ukrainian agriculture into the EU's common agricultural market after Ukraine's accession. The European Commission insists that Ukraine will open clusters 4 and 5 by the end of 2026, and – if the government and the Verkhovna Rada accelerate reforms – will close seven negotiating chapters as early as 2027.
Read also: European Commission proposes changes to EU rules to prepare for enlargement, including Ukraine's accession
Read also: EU drops forecasts for accession dates in hope Ukraine will speed up reforms
Your support onPatreonhelps us keep the news free and accessible.