Ukraine’s Vice Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration, Taras Kachka, spoke at the IV Ukraine–France Forum in Paris. The discussion also featured Benjamin Addad, Minister Delegate for European Affairs at the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, with Thomas Gomart, Director of the French Institute of International Relations, serving as moderator.
The forum provided a platform for dialogue among government officials, parliamentarians, and leading independent experts on key challenges facing Ukraine, France, and Europe. This year’s topics included Ukraine’s EU accession process, cooperation with NATO, security, resilience, and post-war recovery.
Vice Prime Minister Kachka emphasized that Ukraine–France relations are built on shared values and a common vision for Europe’s future.
“Ukrainian society has made a definitive choice in favor of European values and way of life. These values, particularly commitment to democracy and the rule of law, empower us to resist Russian aggression and make Ukraine a reliable partner and an integral part of the European continent,” Kachka said.
He highlighted France’s role in supporting Ukraine—from sanctions to financial aid—and in consolidating unity among EU member states.
“The European Union is Ukraine’s main financial and political partner, but this rests on the consolidated position of all member states. We highly value the leadership of countries like France, which helps build shared support for Ukraine within the EU, advancing sanctions, financial, and technical assistance. This unity allows us to maintain the pace of reforms, strengthen the economy, and advance our EU membership,” Kachka added.
He also called for increased pressure on Russia, including expanding sanctions and limiting the aggressor’s ability to finance the war.
Vice Prime Minister Kachka underlined the important role of French businesses in Ukraine. Despite the war, French companies are among the largest foreign employers in the country, providing jobs for over 30,000 Ukrainians. According to Kachka, this demonstrates trust in Ukraine and creates a foundation for new projects in recovery and development.
“We aim to expand such cooperation, increase the presence of European investors, and integrate the Ukrainian economy into the EU Single Market. This strengthens Ukraine’s economic resilience and builds our shared European future,” he said.
The forum was organized by the New Europe Center in partnership with the French Institute of International Relations (IFRI), with support from the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs and the International Renaissance Foundation.
