The Ministers acknowledged the progress of Eastern European partners in implementing political and economic reforms, which will benefit their citizens. The statement emphasizes further support to the Eastern European partners that seek to sign Association Agreements, an ever closer relationship with the EU, to consolidate open economic policies, inclusive democracy, and to sustain respect for the rule of law.
The conference "The Eastern Partnership: moving ahead" was a timely discussion of Foreign Ministers of Lithuania and Poland, the UK's Minister of State, and representatives of civil society of the European Union and partner countries, which aimed to evaluate the region's complex political context and the situation in Eastern European countries as well as challenges in the run up to the Eastern Partnership Summit in Vilnius in November.
The event focused on accomplishments of the Eastern Partnership Policy, political and economic reforms in Eastern partner countries, the future for close cooperation and the deep and comprehensive free trade area, their implementation and efficiency. Participants of the conference also discussed Eastern Partnership prospects, ways to strengthen and develop this initiative after the Vilnius Summit. Russia's actions with regard to Eastern European partners as well as the political and economic pressure faced by the countries on the path towards European integration were also discussed.
