Contract & version 0 still being processed

What causes this issue?

A release order cannot be generated against contract no. &V1& because
version 0 of this contract has not yet been completed.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Check the contract number entered.
If necessary, complete version 0 of contract &V1&.
<ZH>&HINT&</>
If the contract is subject to a release procedure, it may have to be
released (cleared for issue) before you can generate a contract release
order.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.