(ANSA) - BRUXELLES, 27 GIU - The decision to recognize EU candidate status for Ukraine and Moldova as well as Georgia's European prospect "seemed unlikely to many a few months ago, but the historic moment has produced historic decisions," said the European Commissioner for Enlargement Oliver Varhelyi ahead of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the European Parliament.

"Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia see EU membership as the most important and reliable element for long-term security and prosperity," Varhelyi explained. Then he pointed out that the Commission's three opinions, supported by European leaders, have "identified key reform areas for Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia with more efforts to be made to continue on the European path." He added that the Commission and member states will follow progress "closely" to give "full coverage on the progress made." (ANSA).