The Security Service of Ukraine is ready to strengthen its cooperation with local authorities for more effective neutralization of state security risks. During a joint coordination meeting with the heads of central and regional defense and law enforcement agencies, - the SBU Head Ivan Bakanov stated in Zaporizzhia city.

Counterintelligence, especially in such an important region, is a key area of work to the SBU and to me as its Chairman. Counteracting all forms of separatism, defending national statehood, combating terrorism and cyber threats are our priorities. However, do not forget to counter economic crimes against the interests of the state, - said Ivan Bakanov.

He stressed that the SBU does not interfere in economic or corporate conflicts, but keeps on monitoring the risks to national security. In particular, Ivan Bakanov recalled that a few days ago the Service blocked in Zaporizzhia city the conclusion of a losing contract for millions of hryvnias in cooperation with the company which is under sanctions mostly for the ties with the so-called "L / DNR".

Such malversations are possible due to a lack of communication between authorities and the Service, - the SBU Head said. "I hope that the new head of the Zaporizzhia region jointly with the regional SBU Office will establish effective collaboration to protect public interests, - Ivan Bakanov emphasized.

We recall that today Ivan Bakanov visited Zaporizzhia region with a business trip and took part in the ceremony of presentation the new head of the Regional State Administration Vitalyi Bohovin. In addition, the Minister of Internal Affairs Arsen Avakov, the Prosecutor-General Iryna Venediktova, the Deputy Prime Minister, the Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhaylo Fedorov and the First Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Serhiy Trofimov participated in the working visit.