Türkiye reaffirmed its support for Ukraine's 35th anniversary of independence

A reception was held by the Ukrainian Embassy in Ankara on the occasion of the 35th anniversary of the restoration of Ukraine's independence. Speaking at the reception, Minister of Labor and Social Security Vedat Işıkhan said that Turkey is a determined supporter of Ukraine's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. Işıkhan stated that the multidimensional and comprehensive cooperation between Türkiye and Ukraine has developed on a strong basis within the understanding of mutual respect, trust and friendship.

Stating that they attach great importance to the security and prosperity of Ukraine, as well as to the establishment of permanent stability and peace in the Black Sea and the nearby geography, Işıkhan noted that they continue their constructive efforts in the diplomatic process to ensure a fair and lasting peace in Ukraine on the basis of international law. Işıkhan said that the courage and determination of the Ukrainian people to protect their independence and sovereignty is beyond praise.

Stating that Crimea and Crimean Tatars constitute an important dimension of Turkey-Ukraine relations, Işıkhan said, "We continue to support the peaceful and legitimate cause of the Crimean Tatars with determination. We reiterate our condolences for all Ukrainians, including the Crimean Tatars, who lost their lives during the struggle for the homeland, and extend our condolences to their grieving families."

'BILATERAL TRADE VOLUME REACHED 6.6 BILLION DOLLARS'

Noting that the cooperation has been developing steadily in various fields since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Turkey and Ukraine in 1991, Işıkhan said, "Our bilateral trade volume reached 6.6 billion dollars last year. We believe that the Free Trade Agreement with Ukraine, which will come into force on October 1, will take our commercial relations even further."

Stating that Turkey also played a role in the reconstruction of Ukraine with the contributions of private sector organizations, Işıkhan said that he believed that Turkish companies would make significant contributions to the reconstruction and economic recovery of Ukraine. Işıkhan stated that the defense industry cooperation between Türkiye and Ukraine is one of the cornerstones of the partnership and that the institutions continue to work to improve cooperation in this field.

Işıkhan said, "We believe that the friendship and solidarity between Turkey and Ukraine will grow even stronger in the coming years. We are ready to work with our Ukrainian friends to maintain the momentum of the relations between our countries in a stronger, more dynamic context."