“I can say with certainty that the invasion of Ukraine was a wake-up call for a great number of Europeans. We realised that peace can never be taken for granted and we must stay by our values.” Eliane Tillieux, President of the Chamber of Representatives of the Belgian Federal Parliament

“I can say with certainty that the invasion of Ukraine was a wake-up call for a great number of Europeans. We realised that peace can never be taken for granted and we must stay by our values.” Eliane Tillieux, President of the Chamber of Representatives of the Belgian Federal Parliament

Madam President expressed her gratitude towards the participating states at the summit for their continued support of Ukraine in its struggle for independence. Eliane Tillieux emphasized that the occupation of the Crimean Peninsula in 2014 highlighted that sanctions alone are insufficient to restore sovereignty. Therefore, European countries must redouble their comprehensive assistance and support.

In her address, she mentioned Victoria Amelina, a writer and public activist who was killed by a Russian missile, as an example of how artists have continued to fight for Ukraine’s freedom since the times of Stalin. The President drew attention to the multifaceted impact of the war on Ukrainian society including people and animals, children and adults, as well as the realms of economy and culture interconnected with Europe. Therefore, allied nations must enhance their support to jointly prevail in the fight for commonly shared values.