Dutch-Ukrainian conference in Breda boosts EU accession support and business ties
The Netherlands and Ukraine are joining forces in Breda to accelerate Ukraine’s EU accession and foster economic recovery. The conference, attended by key ministers, focuses on reforms, trade, and reconstruction—offering Dutch businesses new opportunities while supporting Ukraine’s future.
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | Lviv Conference (2nd edition) |
| Location | Breda, Netherlands |
| Date | March 27, 2026 |
| Organizers | Netherlands and Ukraine |
| Opening Speakers | Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs (Tom Berendsen), Ukrainian Deputy PM (Taras Kachka) |
| Business Forum Participants | Dozens of Dutch and Ukrainian companies (energy, agriculture, culture) |
| Focus Areas | Rule of law, governance, energy, agriculture, social affairs |
| Dutch Delegation | Representatives from six ministries |
| City Partnership | Breda and Lviv |
The Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs plays a key role in shaping the Netherlands’ international partnerships, including support for Ukraine’s EU accession. This conference reflects the government’s commitment to diplomatic collaboration, economic engagement, and reform assistance as part of broader European policy.
Openrijk has no cookies or ads
But could use some support
external link to whydonate.comRead the full translated article below
Netherlands and Ukraine strengthen bilateral cooperation with conference in Breda
On Tuesday, the annual ‘Lviv Conference’ will commence, a conference organized by the Netherlands and Ukraine aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation and supporting Ukraine’s EU accession process. This year marks the second edition, held in Breda after the first took place last year in Lviv. The conference will be opened by the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tom Berendsen, and the Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration, Taras Kachka. Prior to the conference, a business forum will be held, with the participation of the Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation, Sjoerd Sjoerdsma.
Minister Berendsen: “Countering Russian aggression goes hand in hand with our support for a democratic Ukraine with a well-functioning rule of law. Despite challenging circumstances, Ukraine must continue making progress on reforms on its path to EU membership. The Netherlands places great importance on the accession criteria, but this journey does not have to be taken by Ukraine alone. That is why the Netherlands is happy to lend a helping hand.”
The conference focuses on strengthening bilateral cooperation and sharing knowledge to support Ukraine in meeting the conditions for EU accession, known as the Copenhagen criteria. The Dutch delegation consists of representatives from six ministries. Together with their Ukrainian counterparts, discussions will cover areas such as strengthening the rule of law, good governance, energy, agriculture, and social affairs.
Mayor Depla: “We are honored that this important conference is taking place in our city. Through our city partnership with Lviv, we feel closely connected to the current situation in Ukraine and, where possible, provide emergency aid and support in the reconstruction process.”
Preceding the conference on Monday, a business forum will be held. The first edition of the Netherlands-Ukraine Business Forum will see dozens of Dutch and Ukrainian companies participating, active in the energy and (agri)cultural sectors. The event will be concluded by the Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation, Sjoerd Sjoerdsma.
Minister Sjoerdsma: “For Ukraine’s reconstruction, the involvement of Dutch businesses is indispensable. They contribute to the country’s recovery by sharing their expertise and knowledge with Ukrainian partners and forging new collaborations. This also presents business opportunities, now and in the future. A win-win for both the Netherlands and Ukraine.”