On February 4, 2019 Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine on European Integration Issues Olena Zerkal met with a member of the German Bundestag, Spokesman for Eastern Europe of “Alliance 90/The Greens”, member of the parliamentary committees on Foreign Affairs and on European Union Affairs Manuel Sarrazin. The meeting focused on the issue of ensuring free navigation in the waters of the Azov and Black Seas, which is being blocked by Russia in contravention of international law.

Olena Zerkal thanked Manuel Sarrazin for his attention to Ukraine, in particular, to the issue of freedom of navigation. That was demonstrated by the visit of the German politician to Mariupol, where he became acquainted with the operation of the seaport and economic and social effects that the Russian blockade had on the city.

The German MP shared his impressions of the trip. According to him, Russia’s actions are unacceptable, they violate international law and attempt to destabilize the region.

Olena Zerkul provided arguments that Russia’s actions clearly violate the freedom of navigation under international law, in particular the Maritime Convention.

During the meeting, the parties also discussed energy security issues. In this regard, Manuel Sarrazin agreed with the position of Ukraine that the North Stream 2 project has political nature and is directed against Ukraine.

Olena Zerkul and Manuel Sarrazin agreed on the importance of deepening cooperation between Ukraine and Germany, including on expert assistance and political support of “Alliance 90/The Greens” in the area of nuclear waste management in Ukraine.