Extension of Interim Australian Embassy in Kyiv

Today I announce the extension of Australia's diplomatic presence in Kyiv. Australia's continued presence will serve a number of interests including allowing ongoing close cooperation with Ukraine on issues relating to the investigation of MH17.

The Embassy will continue to pursue stronger and deeper bilateral ties with Ukraine, a relationship underpinned by the almost 40,000 people in Australia of Ukrainian descent.

The Embassy opened formally on 20 November 2014 for an initial period of 12 months, as part of Australia's response to the tragic downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17. Australia continues to work together with Ukraine and other members of the MH17 Joint Investigation Team (Belgium, Malaysia and the Netherlands) to help bring those responsible to justice.

I reiterate Australia's firm support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Australia continues to monitor the conflict in eastern Ukraine closely and calls on both sides to implement the Minsk ceasefire agreements in full.

Australia's continued presence will be reviewed in September 2016. His Excellency, Doug Trappett will remain in place as Australia's first resident Ambassador to Ukraine.