On the First Day of Spain's EU Presidency, Prime Minister Visits Ukraine
The Prime Minister of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, began the country's presidency of the European Union with a visit to Ukraine.
He announced this on social media, stating, 'Already in Kyiv. I wanted the first event of Spain's EU presidency to be in Ukraine with Volodymyr Zelensky. I express European solidarity to the Ukrainian government and parliament. We will continue to support the Ukrainian people until peace is restored in Europe.' Pedro Sánchez tweeted early on July 1st, along with a video from Kyiv railway station.
The Prime Minister of Spain met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and the two sides adopted a joint declaration condemning Russia's aggressive war against Ukraine. Spain reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. Ukraine expressed gratitude to Spain for substantial assistance, particularly in the military-technical, defense, diplomatic, humanitarian, economic, and financial spheres, as well as the solidarity of the Spanish people, who have welcomed over 175,000 Ukrainians displaced by the war.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez also addressed the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, expressing support for the 'expansion of Ukraine's political participation' in NATO and the establishment of the Ukraine-NATO Council. Sánchez emphasized that the Western world will need to reconsider its security framework to ensure that Ukraine can live without aggression and intimidation.
Furthermore, Pedro Sánchez announced the allocation of a €55 million aid package to Ukraine. The majority of these funds will be channeled through the World Bank.
'Today, my country, Spain, has decided to allocate an additional €55 million, including €51 million through the World Bank, to finance small and medium-sized businesses in Ukraine,' said Pedro Sánchez.
An additional €4 million will be allocated through the UN Development Program to create schools in Ukraine with 'green' and sustainable energy systems.
The Prime Minister of Spain emphasized that the reconstruction of Ukraine will require time and investment, and Spain stands by Ukraine in this process.