In Foreign Minister Steinmeier’s view, it is good news that a direct meeting has finally taken place between the Trilateral Contact Group and the separatists, following lengthy diplomatic efforts.

The first agreements were reached in Minsk over providing safe access to the MH17 crash site and freeing hostages immediately. This shows that it is possible to reach agreement, despite the great difficulties involved.

Following weeks of standstill, it is encouraging to hear that an urgently required bilateral ceasefire was discussed at the talks. The parties must now take this further. A meeting is scheduled to take place next week between the Kyiv Contact Group and representatives of the separatists.