On 17 February 2026, a meeting of the EU Council Working Party on Enlargement (COELA) took place in Brussels, Belgium. During the meeting, Chief Negotiator and Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine Taras Kachka presented Ukraine’s progress in meeting the accession criteria within Cluster 4 “Green Agenda and Sustainable Connectivity” and Cluster 5 “Resources, Agriculture and Cohesion Policy.” According to the Deputy Prime Minister, the country has completed a substantial share of the legislative and institutional steps required to open these clusters.
Presenting progress under Chapter 11 “Agriculture and Rural Development,” the official noted that Ukraine has established the core institutional and regulatory framework necessary for implementing the mechanisms of the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy. At the same time, the state acknowledges the scope of further work required, in particular the establishment of a Paying Agency in 2026 and the introduction of the Integrated Administration and Control System (IACS).
Ukraine also shared results under Chapter 12 “Food Safety, Veterinary and Phytosanitary Policy.” Although Ukraine still needs to bring its legislation into full alignment with EU law, the legislative framework in most areas has already been established or is at the final stage of adoption, the Ukrainian side noted. In particular, as of 1 January 2026, animal welfare requirements for farm animals have become mandatory.
Separately, Taras Kachka presented progress under Chapter 13 “Fisheries,” where Ukraine is successfully implementing the e-Fisheries system, has introduced a “single window” mechanism for obtaining fishing permits, and is preparing to establish a comprehensive catch control system in line with EU requirements.
Within Chapter 22 “Regional Policy and Coordination of Structural Instruments,” Ukraine has updated the State Regional Development Strategy in line with the objectives of EU cohesion policy. Twenty-two regions have already updated their strategies, and 95% of territorial communities are participating in strategic planning.
More information: https://eu-ua.kmu.gov.ua/news/ukrayina-predstavyla-derzhavam-yes-progres-za-klasteramy-4-i-5-na-zasidanni-coela/