President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a phone conversation with Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Sweden Magdalena Andersson.
The President briefed the interlocutor on the security situation around Ukraine, as well as on the steps being taken to achieve peace within all available negotiation formats.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy also stressed the importance of uniting and coordinating political and diplomatic efforts to unlock the peace process and restore stability.
The President of Ukraine and the Prime Minister of Sweden praised the recent conclusion of the Intergovernmental Agreement on Defense Cooperation. Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that Sweden is an important security partner of our country, and thanked for the practical assistance already provided in this area.
"We have a strong army, the best experience and practices, we have loyal heroes," he said, adding that today it is more important than ever to unite efforts for the stability of the state.
For her part, Magdalena Andersson reaffirmed the Swedish government's strong and unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The President praised the Swedish side's support for Ukraine's European integration course, as well as significant practical assistance in implementing internal transformations. In this context, the readiness to deepen cooperation in the framework of the Swedish government's strategy for cooperation in reform with Eastern European countries was noted.
The interlocutors discussed the prospects of further bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest. Particular attention was paid to the development of cooperation in trade, investment, energy and environmental sectors. Volodymyr Zelenskyy also stressed that the Ukrainian side is interested in creating a network of modern waste processing plants with the participation of Swedish companies.
"Sweden is Ukraine's largest trade and investment partner in the region. Even in a pandemic, we have more than 50% growth in bilateral trade. According to the results of the year, we expect to reach a turnover of USD 800-900 million. We will work to maintain these positive trends. We will also welcome Sweden's involvement in supporting the national financial system," the President said.
The Prime Minister of Sweden and the President of Ukraine have agreed to intensify bilateral dialogue at the highest level.