EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen made no promises during her visit to Ukraine but confirmed that the timetable previously in force is fixed.
During a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelenskyj, she said that a proposal for a decision to give the country candidate status for EU membership could be made by the end of next week.
- You have done a lot to strengthen legal certainty, but reforms are still needed to fight corruption, for example, she said, adding that it is important, among other things, to attract investors.
"Standing by your side"
In the coming week, EU commissioners and officials are expected to discuss Ukraine's application for membership, ahead of the scheduled meeting on 23-24 June.
In February, Ukraine signed a formal application to join the EU.
After the meeting between the leaders on Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelensky said that Ukraine "will do everything" to integrate with the bloc, reports the news agency AP.
Von der Leyen also highlighted Ukraine's reconstruction and praised the country's strength in connection with Russia's invasion.
"I am sure that we are together and that you will defeat this terrible, cruel war," said von der Leyen.
- I want to say that we are by your side.