ODESA, JULY 8th, 2013, CONTEXT-PRICHERNOMORIE ― The opening of the Ukrainian-US naval exercises with the participation of representatives of the fleets of other countries “Sea Breeze 2013” has been held today in Odesa, Context-Prichernomorie correspondent reports.

During the opening of the exercises, the Commander of the Naval Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Yuri Ilyin noted: “Exercises ‘Sea Breeze’ is one of the important events of the international cooperation, which stabilizes the situation in the Black Sea region, improves mutual understandings and good relations between Ukraine and other countries. Representatives of Qatar and the United Arab Emirates joined as observers. It emphasizes modernity, relevance and transparency of the exercises “Sea Breeze” for all who are interested in peace and stability in the Black Sea and Mediterranean regions.”

The vice chairman of the Odesa Regional State Administration Dmytro Voloshenkov mentioned: “I am sure that the experience gained during the exercises will be useful and assist the strengthening of military cooperation and peace. We are honoured that such programme is held at the Odesa land.”