Ukraine ratifies agreement on joining EU Civil Protection Mechanism

MOSCOW. Nov 15 (Interfax) - Ukraine has become a full-fledged member of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism after the Ukrainian parliament ratified a relevant agreement and now has the same rights and obligations as other EU countries, Ukrainian media reported citing a statement of the EU Delegation to Ukraine.

"The agreement enables Ukraine to collaborate seamlessly with the EU in the realm of civil protection and disaster risk management, allowing for enhanced coordination and response in times of emergencies. The agreement is expected to facilitate the mobilization of assistance to Ukraine under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism," the statement said.

Ukraine, as a full-fledged member, can now offer assistance through the mechanism to affected populations in various crises and receive EU co-financing for transport and operational costs, it said. Ukraine can also benefit from other tools via a more structured cooperation in disaster prevention and preparedness, for example, via training and exercises under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.

The EU Civil Protection Mechanism is recognized as the world's largest system of coordinated international emergency assistance.