NATO to increase support for reform in Ukraine's defense sector - western military
KYIV. Oct 25 (Interfax) - The North-Atlantic alliance will strengthen and develop its support for Ukraine in reforming its defense sector and Armed Forces, including the Navy, Major General Odd Pedersen, head of military partnership at the headquarters of the NATO commander-in-chief in Europe, said at a meeting with the Commander of the Ukrainian Navy, Vice Admiral Ihor Voronchenko, and senior Ukrainian naval officers at the Hetman Sahaidachny frigate, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday.
The two delegations shared views regarding the security situation in the Black Sea region, discussed prospective areas of cooperation, including in reforming the Ukrainian Navy and how NATO could help on this path.
As far back as 2014, Ukraine spoke out as a strong partner of NATO and was among the first countries to support its Partnership for Peace program, having participated in a number of NATO operations for many years, Pedersen said.
In commentary for the press, the NATO representative stressed the relevance and importance of today's meeting for future prospects.
Voronchenko noted the high efficiency of the military cooperation and thanked the foreign colleagues for the many years of support in developing the Ukrainian Navy.
"I am convinced of the need to continue our cooperation. Our fruitful contacts, including on bilateral level, will facilitate both further development of the Ukrainian Navy and better stability and security in the Black Sea region," Voronchenko said.