Deputy defence ministers of UK and Ukraine discuss ways to deepen cooperation

Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine Ihor Starobinsky discussed in a phone conversation with Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Minister for the Armed Forces, James Heappey ways to deepen bilateral defence cooperation.

“The representative of the British side informed about the content and nature of the recently approved comprehensive strategy of the country for defence, diplomacy and international development. It contains the UK's vision of its place in the present and future world, taking into account new geopolitical realities, including the withdrawal from the European Union, current challenges and the experience of recent regional conflicts, and possible scenarios for countering threats to the UK's security,” the press service of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine informs.

The Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine informed Mr. James Heappey about the current situation in the Joint Forces Operation area. In addition, the officials discussed the practical implementation of the memorandum on enhancing bilateral cooperation in the military and military-technical spheres signed last autumn by the defence ministers of the two countries and the current state of defence reform in Ukraine.

“Cooperation between Ukraine and the United Kingdom is at a high level with the prospect of expansion. It is important that our countries share a common view on the challenges and threats posed by the actions of the Russian Federation. We highly appreciate the political, diplomatic and military-technical assistance provided by the United Kingdom,” Ihor Starobinsky said.

He also drew the attention of his British counterpart to the process of introducing democratic civilian control over the activities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

James Heappey expressed the support of the British side for further reform of the Defence Ministry of Ukraine.

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