Olha Stefanishyna met with Minister of Defence of the Netherlands

During a meeting on Wednesday, 23 August, Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine Olha Stefanishyna and Minister of Defence of the Netherlands Kajsa Ollongren discussed a wide range of issues, including the implementation of the decisions of the NATO Summit, steps to strengthen support and defence capabilities of Ukraine.

“The key task today is to ensure the prompt implementation of all decisions of the Vilnius Summit, in particular on the establishment and functioning of the NATO-Ukraine Council, as well as the updated interoperability programme. We are ready for active work and have full coordination at the governmental level, and we expect the same position from the Alliance,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

Olha Stefanishyna stressed that meetings in the NATO-Ukraine Council format should be held on a regular basis. She also recalled the rapid accession of Finland and Sweden to the Alliance, which had the necessary level of compatibility with NATO.

“Ukraine is working on a roadmap for interoperability, and it is important to focus on strategic planning and necessary reforms in the security and defence sector, and we are counting on your help in these matters,” Olha Stefanishyna said.

The participants also discussed practical assistance to Ukraine and the importance of implementing projects under NATO’s Comprehensive Assistance Package.

The Deputy Prime Minister thanked the Netherlands for joining the declaration signed by the G7 countries in Vilnius on the provision of relevant security guarantees. She also noted the recent decision by the Netherlands and Denmark to supply Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets.

“The Netherlands was one of the first countries to respond positively to our request, and although it took some time to reach a decision, your determination was vital to us, as was your leadership,” added Olha Stefanishyna.