«Associated trio»: principles of creation, tasks

Abstract

The article examines the process of creation, goals and objectives of the regional platform «Associated Trio», which included Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova. The unification of these states, in a new format, is explained by: their long-standing bilateral relations; the presence of such modern security problems (aggressive policy of the Russian Federation and its territorial claims); political association with the European Union and its intention to become a full member of the EU. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of the main documents defining the purpose, objectives, scope and mechanisms of cooperation of the union members: «Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration of Moldova integration - the «Associated Trio» (May 17, 2021) and the «Declaration» of the Batumi Summit, approved on July 19, 2021, by the presidents of three countries: V. Zelensky (Ukraine), S. Zurabishvili (Georgia), M. Sandu (Moldova). In June 2021, the Associated Trio was presented in Brussels, where foreign ministers voiced the priorities of the newly created tripartite format; outlined the strategic vision for the development of the Eastern Partnership and the Associated Trio; discussed issues of sectoral cooperation, economic development, EU macro-financial assistance. Based on the analysis of statements, speeches, comments of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba, theses on the position of the Ukrainian side in assessing the current state of international relations, security challenges, the EU’s Eastern Partnership initiative and the role of the Associated Trio.