Canada will always support Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity – Freeland

Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland and Minister of National Defence Harjit S. Sajjan stated this in a joint statement on Ukraine’s Independence Day, according to Global Affairs Canada.

“Canada will always stand with the people of Ukraine in support of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. As we mark the 28th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence, we look forward to continuing to work together as close friends and partners in the years to come,” the joint statement says.

The ministers recalled that 28 years ago "Canada became the first Western country to recognize the independence of Ukraine." “In the almost three decades since, we have been proud to work closely with Ukraine on its journey to becoming a prosperous and vibrant democracy,” they stressed.

According to the officials, Canada and Ukraine "share common values, including a commitment to democracy, freedom and the rule of law." “We enjoy close people-to-people ties, with more than 1.3 million Canadians of Ukrainian descent, and growing business ties, underpinned by the Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement. We cooperate in the defence and security spheres—including Operation UNIFIER, multifaceted assistance and more,” the statement reads.

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