April 03, 2017 – Ottawa
The Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) welcomes today’s signature of the Canada-Ukraine Defence Cooperation Arrangement. The Arrangement was signed by the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Canada’s Minister of National Defence, and General Stepan Poltorak, Ukraine’s Minister of Defence in Ottawa. A UCC delegation led by CEO Ihor Michalchyshyn attended the signing ceremony.
Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Canada’s Minister of National Defence, and General Stepan Poltorak, Ukraine’s Minister of Defence
Canada’s Department of National Defence stated, “This bilateral arrangement further exemplifies Canada’s commitment to Ukraine by identifying areas of mutual cooperation such as defence policy; defence research, development, and production; and military education. The Canada-Ukraine Defence Cooperation Arrangement is a key part of the Canadian Government`s multifaceted support for Ukrainian territorial integrity and sovereignty, security, and stability. This arrangement is focused on providing a framework for cooperation on important defence-related issues.”
“Today’s signing of the Defence Cooperation Arrangement shows Canada’s steadfast commitment to Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. It strengthens the ties between our two nations and helps us continue to develop our rich, mutually beneficial relationships,” stated Minister Sajjan. “Canada remains fully committed to providing assistance to Ukraine, helping to preserve and protect its sovereignty through Operation UNIFIER, and to supporting the implementation of key reforms.”
Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Canada’s Minister of National Defence, and General Stepan Poltorak, Ukraine’s Minister of Defence
“This document underlines once again that our two countries and departments are allies and partners,” stated Minister Poltorak. “The signature of the Arrangement with Canada is a foundation of friendship […] The Ukrainian side highly appreciates the assistance that Canada and partners are providing the Armed Forces of Ukraine.”
“Today’s signature is an important step forward in strengthening Canada and Ukraine’s bilateral security and defence relationship,” stated Paul Grod, National President of the UCC. “At a time when Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine continues unabated, this Arrangement will help Ukraine’s military better defend their country and continue the reform of Ukraine’s defence institutions.”
For the release from the Government of Canada on the Defence Cooperation Arrangement, please see here.
For the release from the Government of Ukraine, please see here.
Today, the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs announced that the Government of Canada will commit $3.5 million over three years through the Peace and Stabilization Operation Program to Explosive remnants of war threat-reduction and clearance in conflict-affected areas of eastern Ukraine to “reduce risks posed to civilians from explosive remnants of war in the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine through mine risk awareness education, community liaison and hazard-marking and clearance operations.”
Minister Freeland also announced $350,725 over two years for Building Ukraine’s humanitarian demining capacity, to “assist in developing policies, practices and institutions; training; installing and operating a digital map showing hazards and cleared areas; and procuring modern equipment.”
For the release from the Government of Canada on demining efforts please see: http://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2017/04/canada_s_supportfordeminingefforts.html
To view this release on UCC website please click here
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