Ukraine signs five deals bringing country closer to joining EU - prime minister

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal has said that five agreements signed by Ukraine will bring the country closer to joining the European Union and contribute to the stability of the state in the war against Russia.

According to him, these documents are important components of a two-year plan on integration with the European Union, as well as another clear demonstration of the EU's standing with Ukraine in this war, the Ukraine-based TSN news agency reported on September 5. 

In particular, the parties had signed an agreement on Ukraine's participation in the Digital Europe program (2021-2027).

This is part of the "digital visa-free" regime with the EU, which has a budget of EUR 7.5 billion for the development of projects in five areas: supercomputer, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital skills, and ensuring the widespread use of digital technologies in the economy and society.

Agreement on Ukraine's participation in the EU program for cooperation in the customs sphere. "From October 1, a ‘customs visa-free’ regime with the EU will open. After signing today's agreement, Ukraine will join the customs cooperation program with a budget of about EUR 1 billion. This will improve the qualifications of our customs officers, participate in the development and use of European electronic systems", Shmyhal said.

Agreement on Ukraine's participation in the EU tax cooperation program Fiscalis. It will allow the State Tax Service of Ukraine to exchange information with colleagues from the EU and use modern European IT systems in the field of taxation.

Agreement on the provision of budget support to Ukraine for EUR 500 million. The funds have a special purpose and will be used to provide housing for internally displaced persons, as well as to support small farmers so that they can continue and develop their business," the prime minister said about another signed document.

The agreement, thanks to which the European Commission increases the budget for grants for Ukraine worth €122 million. This will ensure the financing of priority projects for Ukraine and accelerate their receipt due to the fact that grants can be provided directly to state authorities, local self-government and public organizations.