This was stated in Brussels by Poland’s Minister for European Affairs, Adam Szłapka, who chaired an EU ministerial meeting for the first time on January 28, as reported by Polskie Radio.
The decision to begin negotiations with Kyiv has already been made. However, under Poland’s presidency, the practical implementation of this initiative will take place, including the opening of negotiation chapters.
"We are ambitious and determined. This is only the beginning of Poland’s presidency, but we have already met with the European Commission five times to develop a clear action plan. We are ready to work, although much depends not only on the presidency but also on what the Commission provides so we can present it to the Council. Much also depends on joint work with EU member states", - Szłapka emphasized.
Traditionally, negotiations with candidates for EU membership begin with the chapter on fundamental rights and freedoms. This chapter is also closed last, as its fulfillment is a key criterion for a country’s accession to the European Union.
According to Brussels sources, one of the next chapters that may be opened for negotiations with Ukraine could be energy.
Poland hopes that the stance of EU member states and the efficiency of Poland’s presidency will determine how quickly and successfully new chapters can be opened and progress made toward Ukraine’s integration into the EU.