Ukraine has joined CIOR: a historic step towards strengthening cooperation with NATO

Ukraine has become an associate member of the largest global organization for NATO reserve officers, the Interallied Confederation of Reserve Officers, commonly referred to by its French acronym CIOR (Confédération Interalliée des Officiers de Réserve).  

The official announcement regarding this was made on January 31 at NATO Headquarters in Brussels.

The heads of the national associations of reserve officers from NATO countries unanimously supported the decision for Ukraine to join. Currently, only Ukraine, Switzerland, and Austria hold associate membership in the CIOR among NATO partner states.

“This historic landmark step should have occurred 23 years ago. Joining the CIOR opens new opportunities for Ukraine, particularly in developing the Reserve Forces and deepening cooperation with NATO,” said Deputy Minister of Defence, Brigadier General of Justice Serhii Melnyk, who led the Ukrainian delegation in Brussels.

He also emphasized that Ukraine is not only ready to adopt the best practices of allies but also to share its unique experience in training reservists and organizing defense.

CIOR President Colonel Jørn Buø congratulated Ukraine on becoming an associate member, highlighting the importance of knowledge and skill exchange between reservists from NATO states and partner countries.

“We sincerely welcome Ukrainian reservists to our community. We have much to learn from one another, and the exchange of values, knowledge, skills, and invaluable real-life experience will benefit all participants and reinforce the foundations of our freedoms and security,” he emphasized.