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Important decision for defence: Ukraine and Finland strengthen cooperation

A defence industry workshop with armoured vehicles at various stages of repair. The Ukrainian coat of arms appears at the top, and at the bottom, the overlaid text reads: “Mutual government quality assurance: Ukraine and Finland strengthen cooperation.”
Ukraine and Finland strengthen defence cooperation by introducing a mutual Government Quality Assurance mechanism

The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine is entering the final stage of negotiations with Finland on mutual Government Quality Assurance of defence products. This marks the eighth such agreement with NATO member states, accelerating the integration of Ukrainian defence manufacturers into the European market and strengthening the state’s ability to oversee the quality of foreign procurement in accordance with NATO standards. 

Ukraine and Finland have finalised the preparatory procedures for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on mutual Government Quality Assurance of defence-related goods, works and services. The relevant authorisation to conduct negotiations and sign the Memorandum has been granted by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine. 

To date, Ukraine has concluded seven such memoranda — with Sweden, Czechia, France, Türkiye, Germany, Norway and Poland. Preparations are ongoing for similar agreements with the United Kingdom, Italy, Denmark, the Netherlands and Slovenia. 

The Memorandum between Ukraine and Finland will establish mechanisms for cooperation involving the Ministries of Defence of both countries in ensuring quality assurance of defence products under foreign trade contracts. This will help streamline cooperation procedures between manufacturers, expedite deliveries, and strengthen trust in Ukraine’s defence industry products. 

Within the framework of the existing agreements, the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine implements mutual Government Quality Assurance of products under foreign trade contracts concluded with both Ukrainian and foreign manufacturers. This ensures a consistent approach to quality control and strengthens the effectiveness of international defence procurement and cooperation. 

“The implementation of these agreements will enhance the reputation of domestic manufacturers and strengthen international partners’ trust in defence products manufactured in Ukraine,” said Colonel Yevhen Krasnykov, Head of the Main Department of State Quality Assurance.

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