Minister Taran holds talks with five NATO ministers of defence
As Ukrinform reports with reference to the press service of the Ministry of Defence, this was emphasized by Minister of Defence of Ukraine Andriy Taran during the QUINT format meeting, which was attended by ministers of defence of Canada, the United States, Lithuania, Poland and Great Britain.
“Minister of Defence of Ukraine informed the ministers of defence of partner countries on changes in the security situation in eastern Ukraine, the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea regions, the current state of implementation of the defence reform, as well as outlined the main priorities of the Ministry of Defence and the development of the Armed Forces of Ukraine,” the statement reads.
As noted, Taran briefed his colleagues on the key priorities of national interests in the field of security and defence on the path towards Euro-Atlantic integration, including the implementation of practical measures within the framework of Ukraine-NATO cooperation in the Enhanced Opportunities Partnership format which will provide additional impetus to relations with the North Atlantic Alliance.
The meeting participants discussed new forms and methods of more efficient use of human, material and financial resources to ensure Ukraine’s European and Euro-Atlantic integration and strengthen the defence capabilities of our state.
Minister Taran also thanked for the constant support of the partners and underscored the importance of expanding cooperation in multilateral and bilateral formats.
The ministers of defence of the United Kingdom, Canada, the Republic of Lithuania, the Republic of Poland and the United States assured the Ukrainian side of comprehensive support, including for the sovereignty and territorial integrity within internationally recognized borders and security, as well as the defence sector reform.
The QUINT format meeting confirmed the commitment of the parties to further cooperation in such a format.
The meeting was attended by Secretary of State for Defence of the United Kingdom Ben Wallace, Minister of National Defence of Canada Harjit Sajjan, Minister of National Defence of the Republic of Lithuania Arvydas Anušauskas, Minister of National Defence of the Republic of Poland Mariusz Błaszczak and U.S. Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin.
The event was organized and held with the assistance of Great Britain.
As reported, Ukraine and NATO will develop additional measures and practical steps this year to improve the interoperability of the armed forces under the Enhanced Opportunities Partnership.
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