NATO-Ukraine Commission meeting at the level of Deputy Permanent Representatives with the participation of Special Representative of Ukraine to the Middle East and Africa Hennadii Latii was held at NATO Headquarters in Brussels.

The discussion on the current developments in the Middle East and North Africa was chaired by NATO Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs and Security Policy Mr. James Appathurai.

In particular, the participants of the meeting exchanged views on the ongoing conflict in Syria, periodic outbreaks of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, renewal of mass protests in Egypt, clashes in Libya and the role of the international community in seeking for the ways to restore peace and stability in the region.

Ukraine and NATO are not directly involved in efforts to resolve the situation in the Middle East and North Africa, however they closely monitor the developments in the region since they may have an impact on the security situation in the region and beyond, including the Euro-Atlantic area.

The participants expressed their support for the dialogue on pressing issues in the region within the NATO-Ukraine Commission, which will contribute to a better understanding of events and ultimately – to the international stability and security.

At the request of representatives of the Ukrainian side, the USA, Italy and Turkey have expressed their willingness to provide maximum assistance to our country in the liberation of Ukrainian citizens who are held hostage in Libya.