Mr. Chairperson,

The Delegation of Ukraine aligns itself with the statement of the European Union and would like to add in the national capacity.

We warmly welcome at the Permanent Council First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia H.E. David Dondua and thank him for his comprehensive and insightful presentation.

Ukraine highly values its close relations and cooperation with Georgia as the two countries and peoples are bound by long-standing ties of friendship and mutual understanding.

As this year Ukraine holds the chairmanship in the Organization for Democracy and Economic Development (GUAM) we will seek to foster regional cooperation through this organization that would consolidate the areas of democracy, economic growth and good-governance, the rule of law.

Ukraine supports the efforts of the international community, in particular within the Geneva International Discussions, aimed at peaceful and negotiated resolution of the protracted conflicts on the territory of Georgia.

Ukraine reiterates its firm support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognized borders and calls on Russia to fulfil its international obligations. We urge providing unhindered EUMM access to the breakaway regions and encourage the Serbian OSCE Chairmanships to continue exploring possibilities to re-establish a meaningful cross-dimensional OSCE presence throughout Georgia.

Let me conclude by thanking again First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia David Dondua for addressing the Permanent Council and wishing him very success in his activities.

Thank you, Mr. Chairperson.