Ukraine, U.S. open high-level strategic trade controls dialogue

Ukraine and the U.S. have opened a high-level strategic trade controls dialogue, which is important to the national security of both countries.

U.S. Chargé d'Affaires a.i. Kristina Kvien said this in her speech at the U.S.-Ukraine Strategic Trade Controls Dialogue.

"It's my pleasure to open this high-level dialogue, which is important to the national security of both of our countries. [...] Strategic trade controls have two purposes: to protect national security and to promote legitimate trade. We see the security implications of export controls all around us:

In the continued attempts by certain states to gain advanced missile, nuclear, military and other technologies. In the onward proliferation of missile technologies to non-state actors ready to put them to use in Iraq, Yemen, and elsewhere in the world. And in Russia's ongoing efforts to evade sanctions and acquire Ukrainian military hardware," Kvien said.

She added that the economic role of strategic controls cannot be forgotten either.

"Both of our countries have brilliant scientists, engineers and entrepreneurs who are developing new technologies and new ideas every day. Trade controls help make sure that these technologies are traded safely. But they also help ensure that Ukraine profits from Ukrainian technologies and Ukrainian know-how," the diplomat said.

In this context, Kvien noted that the establishment of an investment review process, based on national security, would also protect Ukraine's intellectual property.

"It will generate investment, as investors gain confidence in Ukraine's ability to manage sensitive technology," she said.

She noted that the Ukrainian government is seeking to expand the global role of Ukraine's defense and aerospace industries, which is good for economic growth and development.

"But it's critical to ensure that trade and technology controls are expanding as well. State-owned and private enterprises must be ready and able to do their part within Ukraine's strategic trade controls system, and agencies implementing key support functions, such as trade controls, need proper authorities and resources," the diplomat said.

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