OREANDA-NEWS President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko had a meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Germany Sigmar Gabriel who is on his first visit to Ukraine.

The Head of State noted the leading role of Germany in consolidation of European efforts in the issue of protection of Ukrainian sovereignty from Russian aggression, which is a precondition for restoration of stability in Europe.

The parties discussed the escalation of the situation near Avdiivka caused by Russian militants shelling the area.

The President emphasized the importance of preserving sanctions against Russia and their enhancement. The Head of State noted that new escalation of violence in Donbas provoked by the militants, recognition of documents issued in the so-called DPR and LPR, appropriation of Ukrainian enterprises are the additional evidence of Russian aggression against Ukraine. This requires the imposition of new instruments of sanctions by the EU.

The President thanked Germany for the contribution to the adoption of recent decisions as regards the unblocking of the visa-free regime introduction for Ukrainians. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Germany assured of support for the prompt introduction of the visa-free regime.

The parties also noted positive dynamics in the enhancement of economic partnership between Ukraine and Germany.