Denys Shmyhal, Andrej Plenković talk over cooperation between Ukraine and Croatia in demining and reconstruction

Ukraine appreciates Croatia's support in the struggle for our independence and freedom, Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal emphasized during a meeting with the Prime Minister of Croatia Andrej Plenković on May 8 in Kyiv.

Denys Shmyhal accentuated the visit of the Head of the Croatian Government to Kyiv during the large-scale russian armed invasion was a courageous expression of solidarity and support for the Ukrainian people.

"Croatia understands from its recent experience the pain and valor of Ukrainians. Ukraine is aware of the particular attitude and support of the Croatian people, who won their independence through war," said the Prime Minister of Ukraine.

Denys Shmyhal thanked Croatia for its humanitarian and financial support, as well as for its assistance in the defense sector.

"Croatia is also one of the drivers in Ukraine's accession to the European Union. In the near future, we will complete the second part of the questionnaire required to obtain the candidate status. We expect a positive decision from the EU Council in June. This is crucial for all Ukrainians. The European perspective will be a significant gift to Ukrainian citizens who defend both the European borders and the European future of our country," the Ukrainian Prime Minister stressed.

Among other things, Denys Shmyhal and Andrej Plenković considered cooperation within the International Criminal Court's investigation into russian military crimes in Ukraine and the provision of technical assistance in demining Ukrainian territories.

"Croatia has a unique experience in demining liberated areas. We need special equipment and machinery to rehabilitate certain regions of Ukraine yet today. Our experts have started negotiations on this issue," said the Prime Minister of Ukraine.

The Head of the Government of Ukraine informed his Croatian counterpart about a special administrative account created by the International Monetary Fund enabling to financially support the reconstruction of Ukraine and cover its needs in the humanitarian and social spheres. Denys Shmyhal also set forth a proposal to disburse to Ukraine part of the funds received by Croatia after the last redistribution by the IMF to its member countries of Special Drawing Rights (SDR) allocations.

For his part, Andrej Plenković assured that Croatia would continue to back Ukraine. And as a sign of solidarity, the Croatian Embassy is resuming work in Kyiv today.