On November 15, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Mariana Betsa held a meeting with Chief of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Ukraine Alessia Schiavon.
During the meeting, the parties discussed cooperation issues between Ukraine and the IOM within the framework of the IOM Strategic Response Plan for 2024-2026. The Deputy Minister emphasized the importance of joint efforts in ensuring humanitarian response to Russia's aggression and the war-related challenges of international migration. She specifically highlighted the importance of support from international organizations for the Peace Formula by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Mariana Betsa also drew attention to the importance of humanitarian assistance and sustainable solutions for internally displaced people. Discussing the issue of providing assistance to Ukrainian schools abroad, the Deputy Minister noted that as of September 2024, over 340,000 Ukrainian students are studying abroad. "In times of war, it is crucial to maintain the connection of our citizens with Ukraine and to provide opportunities for Ukrainian children to learn in their native language, as the need for support for Ukrainian educational centers abroad remains significant," the Deputy Minister stated.
The interlocutors also discussed joint projects between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the IOM, particularly regarding strengthening the Ministry's capabilities in consular services and digitalization, as well as developing interaction with the Ukrainian global community.
The parties agreed to enhance cooperation to successfully implement IOM projects supporting Ukraine.