Ukrainian President Poroshenko speaks during his meeting with people in the southern coastal town of Mariupol
Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko speaks during his meeting with people in the southern coastal town of Mariupol September 8, 2014. Reuters/Vasily Fedosenko

Canada is going to welcome Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko on Sept 17. Canada Prime Minister Stephen Harper made the announcement on Thursday.

Poroshenko was invited by Harper as a means of extending Canada's support to Ukraine, which had been battling pro-Russian separatists in the eastern part of the country. This happens to be Poroshenko's maiden visit to Canada. Harper's official website earlier published a statement that the Canada PM would welcome Poroshenko in his country, CBC News reported.

According to the official statement, this is going to be an opportunity for both the national leaders to have a discussion over the present political situation in eastern Ukraine. There will be "a particular focus" on how the restoration process of Ukraine's "territorial integrity" has to be conducted. At the same time, Poroshenko's visit will make sure that Ukraine's sovereignty remains secure against Russia's "illegal occupation" of the Crimea Peninsula and Vladimir Putin's military aggression. Harper will also discuss the proposed peace plan among Russia, Ukraine and pro-Russian rebels.

The Canadian prime minister earlier said that his country would extend unwavering support Poroshenko. "I know we all look forward to welcoming the president to our country," Harper said, "We may not be Ukraine's most powerful friend, but we will always be its most certain." According to Harper, Canada is specifically interested in helping Ukraine because generations of immigrants from the country have helped Canada build itself. At the moment, there are over 1.2 million people of Ukrainian origin live in Canada. "Remember that during your struggle for peace and freedom, Canada is - and Canada always will be - at your side." was Harper's message to Ukraine.

Harper's statement also said that it would be an honour for him to welcome Poroshenko to his country. "We remain steadfast in our support for the people of Ukraine and are committed to helping the Government re-build itself into a democratic, independent, and prosperous European country, free from aggressors," the prime minister's message said, "Together with allies and partners, Canada stands prepared to apply further political and economic measures against those who continue to undermine Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity."

Poroshenko is scheduled to address Parliament during his visit.

Contact the writer: s.mukhopadhyay@ibtimes.com.au