The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, yesterday met with Jens Stoltenberg, Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.
During the meeting, Minister Joly shared insights from her recent trip to Ukraine as they discussed Russia's military buildup and its other destabilizing activities in and around Ukraine. They also discussed the NATO-Russia Council meeting held on January 12 and the way forward.
Minister Joly expressed Canada's deep concerns over Russia's continued buildup and recent developments. She reiterated that Canada will continue its unwavering support of Ukraine and for NATO's efforts to engage Russia and to encourage immediate de-escalation.
Minister Joly and Secretary General Stoltenberg agreed on the importance of Russia abiding by its international commitments, including on transparency of military activities. They also discussed the severe consequences and costs of any further violation of Ukraine's territorial integrity.
Minister Joly reaffirmed Canada's commitment to a united approach with fellow NATO allies and European partners and to continuing to seek dialogue with Russia in order to find a peaceful solution.
