The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, Ruslan Stefanchuk, met with the Speaker of the Senate of Canada, Raymonde Gagnon
On the sidelines of the G7 Parliamentary Summit in Ottawa, the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, Ruslan Stefanchuk, held a meeting with the Speaker of the Senate of Canada, Raymonde Gagnon.
The head of the Ukrainian Parliament thanked Canada for its significant and consistent support for Ukraine — from the supply of weapons and financial assistance to important political decisions and resolutions. He particularly noted the resolution adopted by the Senate in June, which condemned russia's attacks against Ukraine and illegal interference in the lives of Ukrainian children. ‘It is extremely important for us that Canada is the first to raise these issues at the international level,’ Ruslan Stefanchuk stressed.
The parties discussed the peace process. The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine emphasised that Ukraine is ready for negotiations, but only on the basis of the UN Charter and with full respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. ‘Territorial concessions are unacceptable to us — they are clearly prohibited by the Constitution of Ukraine. That is why we need real negotiations and strong international security guarantees,’ he said.
Ruslan Stefanchuk also emphasised the need to strengthen sanctions pressure against russia. He thanked Canada for its decision to impose restrictions on the ‘shadow fleet’ and for its support in lowering the price cap on russian oil. "We are counting on further strengthening of sanctions against the military-industrial complex, the banking sector and companies working for aggression, said the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine.
In conclusion, he stressed that Canada has been and remains one of Ukraine's closest friends, and that this friendship is saving lives and bringing about a just peace today.