“See us as a partner, not as a future competitor”.

With this appeal, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the French Republic Vadym Omelchenko addressed European partners during the 5th Ukraine–France Forum.

In his address, Ambassador Omelchenko emphasised that Ukraine–France relations are moving to a new level – from providing assistance to mutually beneficial cooperation that creates opportunities for both countries.

Key messages from his speech:

• Ukraine’s security is an integral part of Europe’s security. Ukraine remains open to negotiations aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace. At the same time, any agreements must ensure the full participation of Ukraine and Europe, respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty and concrete mechanisms to prevent renewed aggression.
• Ukraine should become an EU partner in security and economic affairs. Ukraine is ready to meet the requirements of European integration while contributing to Europe’s security and the development of the single market. The Ambassador called on European partners to see Ukraine not as a future competitor, but as a partner that will strengthen the European Union.
• France and Ukraine are moving from aid to strategic partnership. Cooperation is already extending beyond military support, creating opportunities for joint ventures, investment, new projects and jobs in both countries. Key areas of cooperation include defence, energy, technology and infrastructure. Potential areas include joint defence production, the construction of new nuclear reactors, training for Ukrainian specialists, technology projects and the restoration of critical infrastructure.
• The partnership will continue beyond the end of the war. France has become one of Ukraine’s key strategic partners. Joint projects can not only contribute to Ukraine’s recovery but also create new economic opportunities for France.

The Ambassador also highlighted the threat posed by Russian disinformation and hybrid interference, stressing that these attacks are directed against French society as well. Ukraine’s experience demonstrates the importance of identifying these threats in a timely manner and protecting democratic institutions.

Watch the full recording of the speech in Ukrainian: https://cutt.ly/wymCcq0Y

The Forum is organized with the support of the French Ministry of European and Foreign Affairs. For this event, the New Europe Center is supported by the International Renaissance Foundation.