Dec 2, 2024, 10:09 AM
Dec 2, 2024, 10:09 AM

Costa underscores Ukraine's sovereignty in symbolic visit

Provocative
Highlights
  • António Costa visited Kiev on December 1, 2024, to symbolize support for Ukraine's sovereignty.
  • He linked Ukraine's situation to Portugal's own independence, celebrating Portugal's Restoration of Independence Day.
  • This visit marks a new institutional cycle for the EU while emphasizing mutual respect for national borders.
Story

On December 1, 2024, António Costa, the newly appointed President of the European Council, made a significant visit to Kiev, Ukraine, coinciding with Portugal's Restoration of Independence Day. This day holds great importance for Costa, allowing him to draw parallels between the struggles for independence in both Portugal and Ukraine. During a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Costa affirmed that Ukraine, like Portugal, has the right to national sovereignty, self-determination, and territorial integrity. He stated that being in Ukraine on such a critical day was symbolically profound for him and highlighted the necessity of respecting Ukraine's borders and sovereignty amid ongoing challenges from Russia. Costa's visit was marked by a delegation that included Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, and Marta Kos, the European Commissioner for Enlargement, both of whom were commencing their duties in a new phase of EU governance. Their collective presence served not only as a show of solidarity with Ukraine but also as a commitment from the European Union to support Ukraine in the face of external threats, particularly from Russia. This meeting took place at the Mariinsky Palace, a notable location that provided a backdrop of Ukrainian governmental significance for the proceedings. During the press conference, Zelensky also referred to this collaboration as a symbolic beginning of a new institutional cycle for the EU, expressing gratitude for the EU's unwavering support, especially during this historical context where European nations face a shared understanding of the need for territorial respect and self-sovereignty. As Costa embarked on his leadership role within the EU, his actions reinforced the belief that the EU must take an active stance against any acts of aggression or territorial infringement within its borders. The delegation's visit underscores the unity of the European leadership in standing against aggression while celebrating the historical struggles for independence and sovereignty. Ultimately, Costa’s visit to Ukraine on December 1st will likely be remembered as a significant moment in EU-Ukraine relations, as it not only commemorated a special day for Portugal but also reinforced the EU's commitment to supporting Ukraine amidst the continuing challenges of security in Eastern Europe. The historical parallels drawn during the visit highlighted the shared values and struggles that bind European nations together in their pursuit of self-determination and respect for national borders.

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