Prime Minister Stephen Harper

 Calls Ukraine Prime Minister

Arseniy Yatsenyuk

3 March 2014 – Prime Minister Stephen Harper today spoke with Arseniy Yatsenyuk, the Prime Minister of Ukraine.

Prime Minister Harper welcomed Prime Minister Yatsenyuk and his new government in Ukraine.

The two leaders discussed developments in Crimea and other regions in the south and east of Ukraine. Prime Minister Harper condemned in the strongest terms President Putin’s military intervention in Ukraine. He expressed to Prime Minister Yatsenyuk that Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected and that the Ukrainian people must be free to determine their own future. Prime Minister Harper also highlighted that Canada is working closely with partners and allies and drew attention to the strong statement issued by G-7 leaders on March 2 on this matter. He reiterated Canada’s continuing offers of assistance to Ukraine during this important period of transition, including related to the upcoming elections.

Prime Minister Harper assured Prime Minister Yatsenyuk that Canada stands in solidarity with the people of Ukraine.

The two leaders agreed to stay in close touch.