President Petro Poroshenko had a meeting with President of Slovenia Borut Pahor who visited Ukraine in the framework of his international tour after the visits to Berlin and Moscow.

“Thank you for a strong and reliable position in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence, a solid position in the issue of ensuring European unity, including sanctions, as well as for a clear position on the illegal annexation of Crimea,” Petro Poroshenko emphasized.

President Petro Poroshenko informed his colleague on the recent escalation of the situation in Donbas caused by the shelling of Avdiivka by the Russian terrorist troops.

The parties noted that in order to reach progress in the negotiations on the political settlement, crucial security elements of the Minsk agreements must be fulfilled, first of all, full and final ceasefire and withdrawal of heavy weaponry.

President Poroshenko stressed the importance of preserving consistent policy of sanctions of the EU against Russia until full restoration of the illegally violated sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine in the framework of the internationally recognized borders, including Crimea.

The parties also discussed the issue of European integration of Ukraine. The Head of State expressed gratitude for an active support of Slovenia in the issue of prompt introduction of the visa-free regime for Ukrainians by the EU.

The parties noted mutual interest in the development of cooperation in the sphere of energy efficiency. They also agreed to intensify efforts with a view to restore direct air connection between Kyiv and Ljubljana. The Head of State confirmed interest of Ukraine in the enhancement of cooperation with Slovenia in economic, cultural and humanitarian spheres.

President Pahor informed the Ukrainian party on the results of his negotiations in Moscow and Berlin.

The Ukrainian President renewed the invitation to President of Slovenia Borut Pahor to make an official visit to Ukraine.