10 February 2021, 18:51
"Despite the obstacles related to COVID-19 that exist today, I would like to address you with a proposal to intensify Ukrainian-British inter-parliamentary relations," said Dmytro Razumkov.
The Speaker of the Parliament stressed the importance of partnership between the two countries in all fields and expressed hope that "the changes that have taken place over the last year are only the first step."
He also expressed hope as regards the understanding and assistance of British partners in simplifying the travel regime for Ukrainian citizens visiting the United Kingdom.
In addition, the Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada noted the coordinated work of the friendship groups of the Parliaments of Ukraine and the United Kingdom. "It is important to discuss many aspects of international cooperation at the inter-parliamentary level," he added.
Dmytro Razumkov stressed that the United Kingdom is one of the most consistent supporters of Ukraine's territorial integrity. "The de-occupation of Crimea and the occupied territories of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts is a serious challenge for Ukraine," he said.
He stressed that Ukraine continues to resist Russian aggression, thanks also to Britain's stance and sanctions pressure on Russia.
The Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada invited Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons, to visit Ukraine. "The last visit of the Speaker of the House of Commons to Ukraine took place 20 years ago. I think this trend needs to be changed, "said the Speaker of the Ukrainian Parliament.