On July 18, 2024 Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba held talks with UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi, at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, to discuss strengthening cooperation between Ukraine and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

The Minister positively assessed the UNHCR work in Ukraine, particularly the provision of a new package of assistance for preparing for the winter period. He emphasized the importance of strengthening humanitarian response to support Ukrainians affected by Russian aggression against Ukraine. He expressed his gratitude to the UNHCR for its continued support of Ukrainians and our country.

Following the meeting, the parties announced the joint launch of the online platform "Ukraine is Home", which will be a crucial tool to support efforts in Ukraine's recovery and reconstruction and the return of Ukrainians. The platform will provide displaced persons and families with verified and up-to-date information, enabling them to make informed decisions about the possibility of returning from abroad to Ukraine.

"We appreciate UNHCR leadership and coordination in assisting Ukrainians both in the country and abroad. As long as Russian aggression continues, our people abroad will be in need of international support and assistance," said Dmytro Kuleba, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.

"At the same time, we are ready to work together to help Ukrainians abroad who are willing to return to their returning home. In this regard, we expect that one of the important tools will be the "Ukraine is Home" platform, which starts its activity under the auspices of UNHCR. This platform will help people get reliable and up-to-date information on all issues related to returning to Ukraine, see what opportunities and benefits are available, and make an informed choice," he noted.

The Minister also called on UNHCR to take decisive steps to protect Ukrainian children deported to Russia, to prevent their illegal adoption and to ensure their safe return to Ukraine.

The parties expressed their hope for continued partnership in implementing joint projects between the MFA and UNHCR to strengthen the technical capacity of Ukrainian consular service and support the global Ukrainian community.