As part of an advocacy visit to European capitals in September this year, Marianna Fakhurdinova, coordinator of the EU-Ukraine Partnership Program, and Stepan Rusyn, coordinator of the German-Ukrainian Partnership Program, made a series of meetings in Paris. TDC representatives visited France to promote the topics of Ukraine’s European integration and defense against Russia on the agenda of the country’s political and scientific circles.
The highlight of the TDC’s visit to France was a dynamic event titled “Lessons Learned, Emerging Trends in the European Defense Industry, and Key Drivers and Challenges in Partnering with Ukraine.” Organised by Eastern Circles as part of the Fabrique de la diplomatie forum, the event was held with the support of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. At the event, Marianna Fakhurdinova spoke of the prospects of integrating Ukraine into the EU’s defense capabilities.
During their trip, TDC representatives held a series of meetings with leading think tanks IRSEM, IFRI, Eastern Circles, EUISS, ECFR, GMF, CEPA, Institute for Prospective and Security in Europe (IPSE). Marianna Fakhurdinova and Stepan Rusyn also met government officials, in particular specialists from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Defense, the High Commission for Strategy and Planning, as well as MPs from the National Assembly and the Senate. In addition, Marianna Fakhurdinova and Stepan Rusyn had the opportunity to talk to officials from the Embassy of Ukraine in France, which allowed them to better understand the current challenges in relations with the partner country.
TDC representatives exchanged views with meeting participants on the SAFE instrument, which is designed to enhance the defense capabilities of the EU and Ukraine, as well as on the Coalition of the Willing initiative, in which France is one of the leaders. Key political developments were also discussed, namely the transition of the French government y la continuation of military support for Ukraine in this regard.
