On January 28, 2016, the Secretary General of the Organization for Democracy and Economic Development –GUAM, Mr. Altai Efendiev, met with the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Mr. Vadym Prystaiko, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.
The Deputy Minister congratulated Ambassador A. Efendiev on being appointed to the post of GUAM Secretary General, wished him every success at this important position, and assured him of his support for the GUAM Secretary General and GUAM Secretariat in achieving the objectives of strengthening cooperation within the GUAM frameworks, expanding the Organization’s international cooperation, and also increasing GUAM’s role and authority as an international organisation.
Ambassador A. Efendiev expressed his gratitude to the Deputy Minister and, on his part, to Ukraine for supporting his candidature for the position of Secretary General and also for demonstrating confidence in him. The Ambassador noted that it is a great honour for him to represent the interests of all GUAM countries, and provided assurances that he will use his knowledge and experience in aims of successfully implementing the Organization’s objectives and goals.
The Parties noted that the GUAM cooperation format is an important platform for regional cooperation in terms of engaging the cooperation potential of GUAM countries. Demand for its enhanced involvement is advancing the development of the situation in the GUAM region and beyond.
They also emphasised the special importance of the practical implementation of the GUAM transport corridor, the Agreement on establishing of free trade zone between member states, and also other fields of cooperation.
The Parties also noted, in this context, the appropriateness of the full involvement of GUAM’s institutional bodies.
The Secretary General expressed his gratitude to the Government of Ukraine for the excellent conditions provided for the GUAM Secretariat, and expressed hope that an Agreement on the Secretariat’s location would be signed in the near future.
In conclusion, the Secretary General expressed gratitude to the Deputy Minister for the attention and warm reception received.
