Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha received the Ambassador of the French Republic to Ukraine Gaël Veyssière on the occasion of the conclusion of his diplomatic mission.

The Foreign Minister thanked the French Ambassador for his professionalism, dedicated work and significant personal contribution to strengthening the Ukrainian-French strategic partnership.

Andrii Sybiha noted that during his diplomatic mission, Ukraine and France had substantially deepened their political dialogue, defence cooperation and coordination of joint efforts on the international stage. The Minister separately expressed gratitude to the Ambassador and the entire staff of the French Embassy for their decision to remain in Kyiv even during the most massive Russian attacks, which was an important manifestation of solidarity with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people.

During the meeting, the interlocutors discussed the security situation, the latest developments at the front, and diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a comprehensive and lasting peace. The Minister stressed the importance of maintaining partner unity, further strengthening the leadership role of European allies, and supporting Ukraine in consolidating its negotiating position.

Special attention was given to the implementation of agreements reached during recent international meetings, which contribute to strengthening support for Ukraine and reinforcing European security.

Andrii Sybiha highly commended France's leadership in the Coalition of the Willing, its significant contribution to strengthening European security, and its successful G7 presidency. The Minister also underscored the importance of France's unwavering support for Ukraine's full membership in the European Union, including the earliest possible opening of negotiation clusters, as well as the further strengthening of sanctions pressure on Russia, including measures against its "shadow fleet."

The Foreign Minister separately noted France's principled stance on protecting Ukrainian cultural heritage, particularly following the damage to the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra as a result of one of the Russian attacks.

At the close of the meeting, the Minister thanked France and the French people for their unwavering support for Ukraine, wished Gaël Veyssière success in his future professional endeavours, and expressed confidence in the further strengthening of the Ukrainian-French strategic partnership.