On April 30, students and members of the Student Self-Government Council of the Faculty of International and European Law at Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University visited the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine. During the visit, they met with Oleksandr Karasevych, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine; Anton Korynevych, Director of the Department for International Law and International Legal Counteraction to Aggression of the MFA of Ukraine, who also serves as the Agent of Ukraine before international judicial institutions; as well as officials from various structural units of the Ministry who are alumni of the University.
During the meeting, the State Secretary, alongside the Ministry’s directors and staff, shared their practical experience in the diplomatic service. They discussed the specifics of diplomats’ professional activities, the crucial role of diplomacy and international law in protecting Ukraine's national interests, and the opportunities for young professionals to pursue careers within the diplomatic service system.
Special attention was dedicated to the core qualities required of a diplomatic officer. Oleksandr Karasevych referenced the classic "Three P" of a diplomat—Professionalism, Principles, and Patriotism—originally formulated by Hennadiy Udovenko, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine from 1994 to 1998. He emphasized that in today’s environment, these must be supplemented by another fundamental trait: Principledness (steadfastness), defined as the ability to consistently and persistently defend Ukraine’s national interests on the international stage.
The State Secretary also stressed the importance of thorough professional training, accountability, strategic thinking, and high motivation for a successful career in the diplomatic service. He encouraged the students to view diplomacy and international law as promising avenues for their future professional fulfillment.
The visit also included a guided tour of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, during which the guests learned about the history of the MFA building, the specific nature of diplomatic work, and viewed the current exhibitions.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine will continue to support educational initiatives and foster deeper cooperation with higher education institutions to build a highly qualified talent pool for the Ukrainian diplomatic service.