Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Paris together with First Lady Olena Zelenska. The head of state announced this in a statement.
According to Zelenskyy, important talks will take place in France that could open up significantly more opportunities for Ukraine to strengthen its defence.
The president named anti-ballistic defence as the main priority of the visit. Ukraine will present its Anti-Ballistic Programme to partners and, for the first time, hold a meeting involving leaders, national security advisers and defence companies from countries capable of contributing to the creation of a new anti-ballistic system.
Zelenskyy also met with French President Emmanuel Macron. The two sides discussed priorities ahead of meetings of the Anti-Ballistic Coalition and the Coalition of the Willing, as well as bilateral cooperation.
“The relations between our countries have reached a truly strategic level, largely thanks to President Macron’s personal efforts,” Zelenskyy said.
During the meeting, the Ukrainian president awarded Macron the Order of Freedom, calling him a true friend of Ukraine.
The leaders also discussed in detail the situation on the front line and Ukraine’s needs to protect people from Russian attacks.
“It is important to strengthen Ukraine, reinforce our air defence and accelerate the development of our European anti-ballistic capability. France has precisely the capabilities and advanced technologies needed to help,” Zelenskyy said.
The Ukrainian president will also take part in a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing. According to him, the Ukrainian side will work to give the format new momentum.
The First Lady is scheduled to meet with the new Director-General of UNESCO. They are expected to discuss the further development of the strategic partnership and expanded cooperation between Ukraine and the organisation.
Ukrainian service members will also take part in a parade marking France’s national holiday, Bastille Day.
