Practical cooperation between Ukraine and NATO is deepening in various spheres - meeting between the President of Ukraine and the Secretary General of the Alliance
13.12.2018 20:32 | Press office of President
"I am glad that we have made significant progress in our practical cooperation with NATO, which is deepening in various fields. We highly value the commitment of the Allies to strengthen cooperation with Ukraine," President Petro Poroshenko said during the joint press conference with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.
According to him, the Ukrainian side welcomes the planned active cooperation with NATO in the framework of the joint military exercises and training programs for the Ukrainian Army. It also expects strengthening of further cooperation with NATO in the framework of the projects carried out within the NATO’s trust funds for Ukraine.
The President noted that Ukraine is grateful for NATO"s assistance in creating secure satellite communications. "With the support of NATO, we have made a significant progress in developing the Ukrainian cybersecurity potential. That is also the priority of our cooperation. We are waiting for the launch of a new project aimed at strengthening the cyber defense of Ukraine"s electoral infrastructure. We are talking about the information system," he said.
The Head of State also thanked the Allies for their support in implementing the Ukrainian reform program, which helps Ukraine strengthen its own defense capabilities. "The achievement of NATO standards and full interoperability with the Alliance are the main tasks of reforming the security and defense sector of Ukraine," the President said.
He recalled that Ukraine intends to consolidate in the Constitution a strategic course for full membership in NATO and the EU. The Head of State noted that Ukraine appreciates the position of the Alliance partners on open doors. "This should guarantee the irreversibility of our Euro-Atlantic course and give the Allies more confidence in Ukraine," Petro Poroshenko said.
According to him, in spite of ongoing Russian aggression, this year, Ukraine managed to increase its participation in the Resolute Support Mission. "Ukraine"s participation in the NATO-led missions and operations demonstrates our resolve and ability to contribute to Euro-Atlantic security," he said.
"Today, in Ukraine, the future of transatlantic security and stability is being determined. Supporting Ukraine, including in the fight against Russia"s ongoing aggression, is the best investment in the security of the Free World," he said.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized: "NATO provides strong political and practical support to Ukraine, which includes around 40 million euros pledged by allies to Ukraine-NATO trust funds. One of such trust funds helps Ukraine to improve its command and control and communications. Today, I told President Poroshenko that we will deliver secure communications equipment for the Ukrainian Armed Forces by the end of this year”.
“We see that in eastern Ukraine, where ceasefire violations are reported daily. Including with weapons banned under the Minsk agreements. The OSCE SMM faces restrictions to doing their job. They are regularly prevented from moving freely. And their observation drones are jammed and shot down,” he said.
“The so-called elections in Donbas last month run contrary to the letter and spirit of the Minsk agreements. They undermine efforts towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict,” Jens Stoltenberg also emphasized.
The Secretary General of the Alliance noted the commitment to democratic values: "Good governance and reforms will bring Ukraine closer to the Euro-Atlantic family. Significant progress has already been made and we call on Ukraine to continue the path of reforms. Including better civilian control over security and intelligence services, anti-corruption and minority rights".
"The Allies recognize Ukraine"s aspiration to join the Alliance. We want to see the success of your country and we are ready to help you in this issue," he said.