Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal met with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew

"We are grateful for this symbolic visit of His All-Holiness to Ukraine. This is a sign of support for the Ukrainian people, who defend independence and sovereignty. For our country, the visit of the Ecumenical Patriarch during these holidays promotes spiritual unity and harmony," Denys Shmyhal stressed.

Moreover, the Head of the Ukrainian Government thanked for the constant prayers for peace in our country.

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, in his turn, emphasized that cooperation between the state and the church in Ukraine is at a high level and stressed the importance of further steps to help implement a number of initiatives in which both parties are interested. In particular, on the issue of environmental protection, which was constantly emphasized by His All-Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew.

"We are very happy to be here with you to celebrate the Independence of Ukraine, as well as the independence of your Church," Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew underscored.