OREANDA-NEWS First Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine Ivan Rusnak held talks with the delegation of the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania led by Chairman of Committee on National Security and Defence of the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania Mr Vitautas Bakas.

The parties focused their discussion on the issues of democratic civil control over the Ukrainian army and progress of reforms within the Defence Ministry of Ukraine.

The head of the Ukrainian delegation thanked the Republic of Lithuania for comprehensive support and assistance provided to Ukraine.

“We are grateful for consistent support at all levels of branches of government of your country. You stand Ukraine’s ground in NATO, EU, and around the globe”, Ivan Rusnak said, “It is difficult to overestimate our cooperation. Your efforts and volume of assistance are invaluable”.

First Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine briefed on cooperation within LITPOLUKRBRIG, as well as advisory consultations provided by the Lithuanian advisers working within the Ukraine’s MoD, rehabilitation of the Ukrainian service members, training of the Ukrainian military provided by the Lithuanian instructors, language training, etc.

The representatives of the Lithuanian delegation pledged in continuation of support at the international level.

“Several years ago we chose our European path and we are ready to help Ukraine. Moreover, we understand that Ukraine ensures security in the region as it is a part of Europe”, Mr Vitautas Bakas remarked.

The representatives of the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania gave practical advice in terms of reforms of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine and General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.