NICOSIA, April 24 (Xinhua) -- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday said there is no feasible immediate accession for Ukraine to the European Union(EU), while proposing a process to bring the country closer to EU institutions.
"It is clear to everyone that Ukraine's immediate accession to the EU is not possible," Merz said at a press conference in Nicosia, Cyprus, following an informal meeting of EU leaders.
He proposed that Ukraine could be allowed to participate in meetings such as the European Council, the European Parliament, and the European Commission without voting rights.
Merz also suggested a gradual integration of Ukraine into specific policy areas based on the progress of its domestic reforms.
Merz stated that he had discussed these steps with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, noting that the plan has received much support from his colleagues in the European Council. ■