The process of Ukraine’s accession to the European Union should start now, said the philosopher and writer Bernard-Henri levy at the 14th Annual meeting of the Yalta European strategy (YES), organized by the Victor Pinchuk Foundation.
“I believe that the best way to respond to the decline of the West – to meet and take an important step forward for Europe embraced Ukraine, and Ukraine – Europe. I believe that the question of the beginning of Ukraine’s accession to the EU is today more relevant than ever”, – said the philosopher.
He added that “fresh blood” to join the United Europe, can give her a new life.
“Economically, 45 million new European citizens – this is slightly more than 10% of the European population. It would be very good! Strategically, if you look at a map of Europe… Ukraine may be the best shield, in-depth strategy and protection for Europe”, – said the philosopher.
Bernard-Henri levy added that the country still faces many challenges on the way to Europe, in particular – the issue of remembrance of the victims of the Holocaust.
“More needs to be done … Much has already been done – last year I presented my President at Babi Yar at the seventy-fifth anniversary of the mass extermination of Jews – it was a very touching moment. But we are all waiting for 2021 to represent a real memorial,” he said.
However, the philosopher said that the problem facing the Ukraine – not more complex than those needed to solve Turkey for accession to Europe.
“A few weeks ago, the process of Turkey’s accession to the EU was called a farce, a Comedy, a joke. I would like to say: so far, Turkey, welcome to Ukraine! Unfortunately, UK, welcome to Ukraine!”, summed up Bernard-Henri levy.
Yalta European strategy (Yalta European Strategy, abbreviated as YES forum) is an annual conference organized by the Victor Pinchuk Foundation.
The conference gathers the most influential politicians and businessmen of Ukraine and the world, it has been held annually since 2004.
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- Yalta European strategy YES: what you need to know
The aim of the conference is the development of Ukraine and its European future, as well as establishing international ties.
The founder of the Yalta European strategy, Victor Pinchuk, a prominent Ukrainian businessman and philanthropist.
