The aim of the visit was to reiterate the support and solidarity of the Luxembourg government for Ukraine as the Russian war of aggression against Kyiv enters its third year. Luxembourg will continue to provide substantial aid to Ukraine to enable it to exercise its right to self-defence, to cope with the humanitarian and economic consequences of the war and to ensure accountability for the crimes committed by Russia in Ukraine, while supporting Kyiv on the path towards European and Euro-Atlantic integration. The bilateral relations have been strengthened by the signature of a technical and financial cooperation agreement between the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and Ukraine by Xavier Bettel and Denys Shmyhal. This agreement establishes the conditions for the implementation by the Lux-Development agency of a bilateral support programme for Ukraine’s recovery. Press release by Ministry of State/ Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, Defence, Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade / Ministry of Finance / Ministry of Justice The Ukrainian Prime Minister was also received by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Minister for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Affairs, Xavier Bettel, for a working meeting at the Mansfeld building. Minister Bettel reaffirmed Luxembourg’s continued support for the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine, recalling the condemnation of Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea ten years ago as well as Russia’s organisation of so-called “elections” in Ukrainian territories. Ukrainian Prime Minister, Denys Shmyhal, was first received by Prime Minister Luc Frieden for a meeting at Senningen Castle. During this bilateral meeting, Luc Frieden stressed that “in this complex geopolitical situation, it is particularly important to strengthen relations with Ukraine, which defends our freedoms and values. Luxembourg stands with Ukraine and will continue to provide political and financial support, as well as military and humanitarian aid”. The Prime Minister added that “the defence of international law, security and stability in Europe are at stake. Luxembourg and the people of Luxembourg are by your side. Both today in the face of Russian aggression and in the long term for the reconstruction of your country”. Following the meeting, the two heads of government had the opportunity to continue their discussions during an official lunch attended by the Minister of Finance, Gilles Roth, and the Minister of Justice, Elisabeth Margue. Key topics of discussion included the current situation in Ukraine, Luxembourg’s support for Ukraine, and relations between Ukraine and the European Union and NATO. Denys Shmyhal was also welcomed by the President of the Chamber of Deputies, Claude Wiseler, and met the President of the European Investment Bank, Nadia Calviño.
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