Kuleba enlists North Macedonia's support amid Russia's escalation
"Bujar Osmani expressed North Macedonia's solidarity with Ukraine against the background of Russia's escalation, reaffirmed strong support for its sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, including Crimea as an integral part of Ukrainian territory," the Foreign Ministry’s press service reported.
In particular, Kuleba spoke about the destabilizing actions of the Russian Federation, including the military buildup near the Ukrainian borders, the aggravation of the security situation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, the blocking of the Kerch Strait, reluctance to reaffirm commitment to the ceasefire regime and take measures to de-escalate.
The minister separately informed about the results of the meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council held on April 19, during which he presented a step-by-step action plan to deter Russia from further aggression.
The interlocutors exchanged congratulations on the occasion of the 26th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Ukraine and North Macedonia, which is marked today, and praised the dynamics of bilateral relations at all levels.
The Ukrainian foreign minister also congratulated his Macedonian counterpart on the first year of North Macedonia's NATO membership and wished success on the path to European integration.
Bujar Osmani confirmed his readiness to visit Ukraine in the second half of this year at the invitation of Dmytro Kuleba. The parties paid special attention to the preparation of the events dedicated to the 30th anniversary of Ukraine's independence.
In the end, the ministers noted a significant increase in trade between the two countries at the end of 2020 and agreed to make joint efforts to further develop trade and investment cooperation.
As reported, on April 19, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba at a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council proposed a step-by-step plan on how to discourage Moscow from further escalation.
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