The draft declaration faced many months of diplomatic delays: it was partially considered and had been under development for more than a year, but was delayed due to tensions between Turkey and Cyprus, diplomats explain to the publication.
Now the final version is on its way, and should be presented in the near future. Two diplomats specified that this could happen on Monday or Tuesday, or in early 2023 if times get in the way before the new year.
It is noted that, although the text of the declaration is not innovative, making it official would be a significant diplomatic achievement, given the months it took to receive it. Initially it was assumed that the document would be approved at the NATO summit in Madrid, held last June.
Though the document is nearly ready for publication, some remain skeptical, saying they will only believe it when they see a public ceremony.
In an almost definitive version, the EU and NATO are calling on Russia to “immediately end this war and withdraw from Ukraine” and to reaffirm their “unwavering and unwavering support for its independence”. They also agreed to “fully support Ukraine’s inalienable right to self-defense and choose its own destiny”. The statement also notes that “Russia’s brutal war has exacerbated the food and energy crisis affecting billions of people around the world.”
In September, following a meeting with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen tweeted that “the time has come to agree on a new joint statement to move our partnership forward.” And in early December, the European Parliament complained that “despite effective cooperation on the ground, the delay in the long-awaited third joint statement is particularly evident”.
The text was mainly discussed between the office of the President of the European Council, Charles Michel, the Commission and NATO.
