Minister Joly speaks with Ukrainian counterpart

December 1, 2021 – Riga, Latvia - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today met with Dmytro Kuleba, Ukraine’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, on the margins of the NATO Foreign Ministers’ meeting.

Following their introductory call last week, the ministers reaffirmed the significance of the Canada-Ukraine relationship, and they emphasized the importance of continuing close bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest, such as security, prosperity and the rules-based international order.

The ministers also discussed Russia’s current military buildup in and around Ukraine and Russia’s ongoing destabilization activities. They exchanged views on the concerning security situation in Ukraine and how Canada and the international community can support de-escalation.

The ministers confirmed their commitment to holding Iran to account for the downing of flight PS752 and expressed their solidarity with the families of the victims.

Minister Joly highlighted that Canada continues to call on Russia to reduce tensions and to be transparent in its military activities. Further, the Minister underscored that Canada remains a steadfast ally of the Ukrainian people and strongly supports Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. 

Associated links

• Canada’s engagement in Ukraine