Mr. Chairperson,

The delegation of Ukraine warmly welcomes the Head of the OSCE Mission to Moldova, Dr. Claus Neukirch back to the Permanent Council and thanks him for the comprehensive report.

Ukraine welcomes the conduct of the 5+2 meeting last week in Bratislava. We regret that in spite of the good work made towards producing a substantial document, the Bratislava Protocol hasn`t been signed. In this regard we call the Mission to continue to offer both Sides its full support in overcoming the outstanding differences in line with its mandate. We hope that Protocol will be finalized in the nearest future.

We continue to pay special attention to the Russian warehouses with obsolete artillery and ammunition in Kovbasna. To prevent negative consequences from possible incidents, Ukrainian side underlines the necessity to conduct the independent examination of these warehouses under the auspices of the OSCE with the following processing of preventive measures related to the possible drawdown of munitions from Kovbasna.

In terms of practical measures of advancing the settlement process, there is an urgent need for withdrawal of the Operational Group of Russian Forces, stationed on the territory of the Republic of Moldova without consent of this state. We reiterate the importance of implementation of earlier reached agreements and commitments, including from the 1999 OSCE Istanbul Summit on the withdrawal of Russian troops from Transdniestria, as well as of the UN GA resolution A/RES/72/282 of 22 June 2018 “Complete and unconditional withdrawal of foreign military forces from the territory of the Republic of Moldova” co-sponsored by Ukraine.

In conclusion I wish to reiterate that Ukraine, as a state-guarantor and mediator in the negotiation process, supports a peaceful and comprehensive resolution of the Transdniestrian conflict with full respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Moldova, with a special status for Transdniestria within Moldova.

The delegation of Ukraine again thanks Dr. Claus Neukirch for his report and wishes him and his able team every success in their future activities.

Thank you, Mr. Chairperson.