You're reading: President of Ukraine, Defense Minister of Canada discuss defense cooperation

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko and Canadian Defense Minister Jason T. Kenney have discussed cooperation for the enhancement of Ukraine's defense at a time when Russia is in 'hybrid war' against Ukraine.

‘Poroshenko thanked Canada for its comprehensive support for Ukraine, particularly for measures on the enhancement of its defense capability,’ the press service of the head of state reported on Friday.

Since the beginning of Russian military aggression against Ukraine, Canada has been one of the first countries to provide assistance to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, particularly winter uniform, first aid kits, protective helmets and vests, tents and sleeping bags, the president said.

‘A friend in need is a friend indeed. Canada is constantly demonstrating that,’ the head of state said.

The parties discussed the issue of expanding military-technical cooperation between the two countries.

They also negotiated prospects for participation in the international military training planned by military institutions of Ukraine and Canada in 2015.

‘The president praised the opportunity of involving Canadian instructors in military exercises in Ukraine and exchanging experience on ‘hybrid war’. According to Petro Poroshenko, it will help the world understand the level of threats and challenges caused by Russian aggression against Ukraine,’ reads the report.

The head of state informed the Canadian minister on the situation in Donbas and pointed at strict compliance with the Minsk agreements by Ukraine.

The parties also discussed the importance of facilitating the visa-free regime between Ukraine and Canada, taking into account the proximity of historical, cultural and national ties between the countries.

‘Jason Kenney noted that the protection of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity is a necessity not only for global security, but also for millions of Canadians who have strong ties with their historic Motherland,’ reads the report.