On February 15, Ukraine’s new Foreign Minister, Vladimir Ogrizko, received Minister Oskanian, who was in Kiev to participate in a Special Session of the EU and Black Sea Economic Cooperation Foreign Ministers Meeting.

The Ministers first exchanged ideas on the said Ministerial Meeting, which, they said, is evidence of the European Union’s growing interest toward the region.

Speaking about the bilateral relationship, the two expressed their satisfaction with the present high level of the relations, mentioning the age-long similarities between the two nations, as well as today’s common vision on the countries’ further development. They also spoke about the countries’ willingness to boost economic development.

Furthermore, Minister Ogrizko presented his counterpart the priorities of Ukraine’s foreign policy. Specifically, he mentioned the ongoing dialogue with the European Union on the issue of Ukraine’s integration into the European structures. Ukraine is willing to define clearly its aims in the document to be signed with the EU and to agree on the provisions of the free trade agreement. He also spoke on the present state of cooperation with the NATO. According to Mr. Ogrizko, the member states have already undertaken internal consultations on Ukraine’s involvement in the latest Action Plan necessary for its membership.

The Foreign Ministers also exchanged views on the regional conflicts, the possible developments to follow Kosovo’s expected independence, and the countries’ stances on GUAM’s initiative introduced to the UN General Assembly. The Ukrainian and Armenian Ministers agreed to continue consultations on the last issue at the level of the UN representatives.