While on a working visit to Brussels, acting Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Deshchytsia had a meeting with NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen.

The discussion at the meeting focused at the development of political situation in Ukraine, with particular focus at the issue of preserving territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine in view of Russian military presence in our country and so-called referendum in the Crimea held on 16 March.

NATO Secretary General reiterated the Alliance’s strong condemnation of illegal actions and escalation of tensions by the Russian Federation, as well as confirmed NATO’s firm commitment to support sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine. He also stressed the enherent right of the Ukrainian people to determine their own future without outside interference.

Anders Fogh Rasmussen expressed deep concern over the situation in Ukraine and pointed out that the so-called referendum held in Crimea is a direct violation of the Constitution of Ukraine and international law and therefore has no legal effect or political legitimacy. A relevant statement was made by NATO Secretary General on 14 March. It is expected that the North Atlantic Council will also express its position.

The parties also discussed the next steps that could be taken by Ukraine and NATO toward the de-escalation of the situation, as well as in order to deepen bilateral political dialogue at all levels and to significantly intensify the Alliance’s practical cooperation with our country with a view to improving the preparedness of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Following the bilateral meeting, acting Foreign Minister of Ukraine Andrii Deshchytsia held a briefing for representatives of Ukrainian and foreign media accredited to NATO HQ.