On February 6, 2019, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine on European Integration Olena Zerkal met with the deputy of the German Bundestag from the Christian Social Union (CSU) faction and the member of the parliamentary Committee for Foreign Affairs Christian Schmidt.

The focus was on the development of trade, economic and investment cooperation between Ukraine and Germany, which is developing dynamically due to the free trade regime between Ukraine and the EU.

Mrs. Zerkal presented the state of implementation of the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the EU and emphasized the priority of integration of energy and digital markets, which will create additional opportunities for further deepening of cooperation.

Mrs. Zerkal also informed the interlocutor about the situation with the blockage by Russia of navigation in the waters of the Azov and Black Seas.

Mr. Schmidt confirmed the inadmissibility of Russia's violation of the norms of international law and stressed that the Crimea topics remain relevant on the agenda of the Bundestag.

The parties noted that the implementation of infrastructure projects is important for the socio-economic development of the city of Mariupol and eastern regions of Ukraine. The Ukrainian side is counting on German support in this area, as well as investment in creating new jobs in the region.

The parties agreed on the need to deepen Ukraine's cooperation with NATO in order to confront the current threats to peace and security in Europe.