Ambassador of Ukraine to the Republic of South Africa Dr. Valery Hrebeniuk took part in the sacred liturgy in the framework of the visit of Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria and All Africa, Theodore II to South Africa.

During the individual meeting with Theodore II sides discussed the current state of church relations in Ukraine. Particularly Ambassador emphasized that Ukrainian Orthodox Church plays very important social role in the life of Ukrainian society.

Patriarch Theodore II and Ambassador Valery Hrebenyuk discussed ways of intensification of humanitarian, cultural and spiritual ties between Orthodox churches and nations. Two sides also underlined the importance of support of the Ecumenical Patriarchate to Ukrainian Orthodox Church.

Vice-President of the Republic of South Africa Khalema Motlante also took part in the sacred liturgy. During the brief conversation with Vice-President sides discussed the current state of Ukrainian-South African relations.