Ukraine looks forward to step up cooperation with Saudi Arabia - Zelensky

MOSCOW. Oct 17 (Interfax) - Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has called for ramping up cooperation between Ukraine and Saudi Arabia.

"There are substantial agreements. Among other things, this also includes the decision by our partners to provide a $400-million humanitarian support package. This is very important," Ukrainian media quoted Zelensky as saying in a video address on Sunday evening.

"We have the most profound relations with Saudi Arabia over the past 30 years," he said.

Ukrainian media have also quoted a statement by the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA) saying that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced the allocation of $400 million in humanitarian aid for Ukraine following his telephone call with Zelensky.

The crown prince emphasized the Kingdom's "position of supporting everything that will contribute to de-escalation, and the Kingdom's readiness to continue the efforts of mediation," SPA said.

Zelensky congratulated Prince Mohammed of being appointed as prime minister of Saudi Arabia last month.