Russian Diplomat: Black Sea Fleet May Return Some Objects to Ukraine

28.04.2012 Russia does not mind to give back Ukraine some objects leased for Black Sea Fleet (BSF), said Russian foreign ministry's ambassador-at-large Alexander Bovykin.

"We work to help Sevastopol in establishing favorable investment climate and being open for business, as well as assist in economic development. When we sign an agreement on Black Sea Fleet infrastructure, there would be a list of objects remaining leased by Russia and those that can be released for other projects including civilian ones", said Bovykin.

According to his Ukrainian counterpart Viktor Semenov, it is government to decide who will take over released BSF object, either Sevastopol or Ukrainian Navy.

"If such objects are really released [we are discussing them with Sevastopol administration], they would be handed over to Ukraine. Cabinet of Ministers will determine the authority to take them over to. If quays are in question, they will be given either Sevastopol's city community or Ukrainian Navy. Governmental approach will be used here", Semenov said.