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Visit of Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevičius to Ukraine on October 20, 2023

The visit was marked by the Commissioner's active participation in the conference "United for Justice. United for Nature," co-organised by the Office of the Prosecutor General and the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources of Ukraine. The Commissioner actively engaged in discussions with key Ukrainian officials, emphasising the EU's commitment to supporting Ukraine's green recovery.

© EK nuotr.

date:  28/01/2024

The conference focused on international efforts to ensure accountability for war-time damage to the environment. Prime Minister Shmygal, as the keynote speaker, underlined the devastating environmental consequences of the war, with damages exceeding EUR 55.6 billion, emphasizing the need for Russia to pay reparations.

The establishment of the International Register of War Damage was introduced, representing a crucial step towards compensation for losses.

During the visit, Commissioner Sinkevičius participated in various meetings, including the Ministerial meeting and the 3rd Meeting of the High-Level Working Group on the Environmental Consequence of the War. The Ministerial meeting resulted in the signing of a Trilateral Declaration on Cooperation in the Prut River Basin between Moldova, Romania, and Ukraine.

In addition, the Commissioner opened the Ukrainian Climate Office alongside German Federal Minister Steffi Lemke, marking a pivotal moment in Ukraine's green transition ecosystem.

Commissioner Sinkevičius received the II Degree Order of Merit, recognising outstanding achievements in various spheres.

The visit underscored the EU's commitment to supporting Ukraine's environmental recovery and reconstruction efforts. As we move forward, we anticipate continued collaboration and progress in addressing the environmental consequences of the war.