Participation of representatives of the Institute of International Relations and Political Science in a lecture by Luc Jacobs, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Belgium to Ukraine, entitled "Belgium in the EU: Lessons for Ukra
On 15 October, together with first-year master's students of the educational programme "Diplomacy and International Cooperation" of the Educational and Scientific Institute of International Relations of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, as part of the course "European Union: Politics, Governance, Diplomacy" (lecturer: Associate Professor N. Rylach, seminars: Assoc. Prof. Konovalova M.), attended a lecture by Luc Jacobs, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Belgium to Ukraine, entitled "Belgium in the EU: Lessons for Ukraine" as part of the #knudiplomacytalks series at Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv.
In his speech, the Ambassador emphasised the importance of real security guarantees and European unity, which can become a guarantee for the future.
"Belgium and its neighbours rebuilt themselves after the world war. Now Ukraine stands at a similar crossroads, and its reconstruction is possible through integration, the rule of law, European cooperation and unity in diversity."
The Ambassador reminded those present of the fundamental values and principles underlying the creation of the European Union.
During the dialogue with students, the Ambassador focused on the problem of Russian disinformation; emphasised the importance of holding Russia accountable for the crime of aggression; spoke about Belgium's participation in the F-16 coalition and the provision of military support, as well as the efforts of the Belgian government and civil society to rebuild Ukraine.
It was important to hear from the diplomat that the majority of Belgian society already understands that Ukraine's accession to the EU is beneficial not only to Ukrainians but also to the European Union, and that Ukraine is rightfully part of the European family. And if the European Union is giving more serious consideration to collective security, then Ukraine's military experience, defence capabilities and advanced technologies will be needed.
"This is not just about Belgium and not just about Ukraine, but about all of us. It's about how we have crossed paths in history and how we are moving forward together into the future," the diplomat concluded.
We express our sincere gratitude to His Excellency Mr. Luc Jacobs for an extremely interesting meeting, as well as to the administration of Taras Shevchenko National University — the rector, vice-rector for international relations, and head of the international relations department — for providing students with the opportunity to participate in events that reinforce the theoretical material we study in lectures with practical components and give future diplomats the opportunity to communicate with renowned experts in the field.
