Ukraine: National Defence University applies for 'associate network partner'

It was therefore no surprise that the university applied for associate network partner status. This can be given to partner institutes from third states or third organisations which want to contribute to the ESDC's academic programme. To do so, they have to include a clear EU perspective in the training offer and twin their projects with at least one ESDC network partner from one of the EU Member States. The final decision will be taken in September by the Steering Committee, which comprises representatives from the 28 EU Member States.

Every year, the National Defence University of Ukraine hosts a 'European week', which includes training on the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy in the format of a conference, an orientation course and an alumni seminar. In 2017 about 600 people from EU Member States, EU institutions and Eastern Partnership countries attended events within the European week. The EU Delegation and the EU Advisory Mission give continuing support to the events.

In this context, the words of High Representative Federica Mogherini, who visited Kyiv on 11 and 12 March, are very fitting: 'I think the main message today for us is that we build on these successes, we consolidate results, and we continue to work together as closely as possible, to further strengthen the European Union-Ukraine relationship.'