Shmyhal, Baerbock discuss defense, energy security, economy

Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal and German Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs Annalena Baerbock discussed defense, energy security, and economic issues during a meeting in Kyiv on February 7.

Shmyhal noted that Ukraine was consolidating its main international partners as much as possible. "We hope for the continued support for our state and the strong and steadfast position of Berlin," he added, the Government portal informs.

The Prime Minister of Ukraine pointed out the crucial importance of counteracting hybrid threats posed by the Russian Federation. In this context, Shmyhal stressed that Russia could use the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline as an energy weapon against Europe.

The Head of Government of Ukraine noted that Ukraine continued to implement reforms despite Russian aggression. He thanked Germany for its many years of effective support in this area, in particular, in implementing decentralization reform and promoting projects for the fair transformation of coal regions.

In addition, Shmyhal congratulated Germany on the start of G7 presidency. He also focused on attracting German investors to joint projects, including on mining.

The Prime Minister of Ukraine stressed that European and Euro-Atlantic integration remained the unwavering commitment of the Government of Ukraine.

As a reminder, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said at a joint press conference with her Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba in Kyiv on February 7 that Germany still had no plans to provide Ukraine with weapons but was ready to bolster financial and humanitarian support.

Photo credit: Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine

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