UK Deputy PM visits Kyiv for partnership anniversary

(MENAFN) British Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy arrives in Kyiv on Friday to participate in a forum celebrating the first anniversary of the 100-year partnership agreement between the United Kingdom and Ukraine, as stated by reports.

Ukrainian Ambassador to the UK, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, welcomed Lammy and described the visit as “another testament to the intensive cooperation” between the two nations. Zaluzhnyi noted that the forum would cover future cooperation in areas such as the economy, reconstruction, and education, emphasizing that security will receive “special attention.” He also expressed gratitude to the UK for its continued support in defending Ukraine’s interests.

Later, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated that he and Lammy officially launched the 100-Year Partnership Forum, reaffirming a “true strategic partnership based on shared values, security, and a joint vision for a secure Europe.”

During his visit, Lammy met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss Russian airstrikes targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and strategies to improve protection.

Zelenskyy thanked the UK for providing an energy support package at a critical time.

Lammy’s visit coincides with the first anniversary of the signing of the 100-Year Partnership agreement, which aims to deepen defense collaboration and address long-term security challenges, particularly in maritime domains. The agreement was signed during British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s first visit to Ukraine since taking office in July 2024.

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