On March 14, 2011 the Ukrainian-Greek political consultations at the level of heads of departments of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine and the Hellenic Republic were held in Athens. The Ukrainian Side was headed by the Director of the Third Territorial Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Mr. Andriy Melnyk, and the Greek Side – by the Director of Territorial Department A5 of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Greece Mr. Karolos Gadis.

During the consultations the parties exchanged views on the current state and prospects of deepening of the political dialogue, development of the legal base between two countries. The Ukrainian Side informed about the current internal situation in Ukraine in particular about systematic reforms in our country as well as current cooperation between Ukraine and the EU. The Greek Side assured about its support of the European integration of Ukraine.

The Sides confirmed their interest in the visit of the President of Ukraine Mr. Viktor Yanukovych to the Hellenic Republic, as well as the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic Mr. Dimitris Drutsas and the Chairman of the Hellenic Parliament Mr. Filippos Petsalnikos to Ukraine.

The discussion on trade and economic cooperation between Ukraine and Greece included expanding of cooperation in following spheres: energy, transport, shipbuilding, industry and banking.

The Sides expressed satisfaction with the level of cooperation in cultural and humanitarian spheres as well as pointed out the interest of both countries to complete the preparation process of revised Program for Cultural and humanitarian cooperation between Ukraine and Greece.

During the consultations the cooperation within international organizations, including the exchange of support of the candidacies for international organizations was also discussed. Special attention was paid to cooperation in the framework of the Presidency of Ukraine in the Ministerial Cabinet of the Council of Europe and OSCE.

The Parties reaffirmed the importance of continuing the practice of political consultation between the Foreign Ministries of Ukraine and the Hellenic Republic.