On May 20, First Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Emine Dzhaparova held a video conference with Deputy Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade of New Zealand Rob Taylor.

The First Deputy Minister informed her counterpart about the preparations for the Inaugural Summit of the Crimean Platform.

"The approval of the state strategy of de-occupation and reintegration of Crimea was an important step towards achieving our strategic goal – the restoration of Ukraine's sovereignty over Crimea by political and diplomatic means. Our state relies on international cooperation and active support of Ukrainian efforts by international organizations and states, as well as by the expert community," Emine Dzhaparova stressed.

"We are deeply concerned over Russia's increasing military presence on Ukrainian borders, as well as about human rights violations in Crimea committed by the Russian occupation administration. New Zealand has consistently supported UN resolutions in support of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity," Rob Taylor, New Zealand's Deputy Foreign Secretary stated.

Emine Dzhaparova also informed her colleague about the work of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on developing public and economic diplomacy of Ukraine. "The President of Ukraine has identified economic diplomacy and investment promotion as key priorities of Ukraine's foreign policy, so we sincerely welcome the strengthening of trade and economic cooperation and tourism between our countries. I hope to be able to greet you not only in Kyiv, but also in my native Crimea," First Deputy Minister said.