The issue
of strengthening chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) defense
and security is relevant for Ukraine.
Since June
2014, a new format for focused consideration of Ukraine’s project proposals concerning
CBRN defense and security has been launched within the framework of the G7
Global Partnership against the Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass
Destruction Initiative to attract more international assistance for
implementing these proposals.
Under the
inter-agency coordination, provided by the Directorate General for
International Security of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, it was
decided to extend the Agreement (Exchange of Notes) between the Cabinet of
Ministers of Ukraine and the German Government on cooperation in the field of
biological, and chemical defense and nuclear / radiological security within the
framework of the G7 Global Partnership against the Spread of Weapons and
Materials of Mass Destruction Initiative up to December 31, 2019.
The
prolongation of the Agreement will enable to continue the practical realization
of a number of CBRN defense and security projects which are important for our
State. To this end, the German Party will provide Ukraine with financial
assistance of up to 8 million euros. These funds will be used by the competent
Ukrainian authorities to purchase equipment for detecting and eliminating CBRN
threats, as well as for obtaining relevant engineering and technical services,
and carrying out thematic trainings.
The
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine believes that the continuation of the
fruitful bilateral cooperation with the Federal Republic of Germany in this
sphere will increase the effectiveness of the CBRN defense and security system
not only in Ukraine but also in Europe.