Through joint efforts of the Asset Recovery and Management Agency and the Shipping Administration, the seized luxury 92-metre yacht "Royal Romance" has been granted the status of a Ukrainian vessel, which means that the vessel is under Ukrainian jurisdiction.

Handing over the Certificate of provisional right to fly under the State Flag of Ukraine, the Head of the State Service for Maritime, Inland Waterway Transport and Shipping of Ukraine noted that the relevant changes had already been made to the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

"This is a historic moment for our country. For the first time in the history of Ukraine, a seized asset located abroad has received state registration to Ukraine. This will facilitate the further sale of the seized yacht and the proceeds from the sale to the state budget of Ukraine. We are proud to be a part of this process and are confident that this property will serve the interests of Ukraine," said Yevhenii Ihnatenko.

Head of ARMA congratulated Ukrainians on the significant occasion and stressed once again that all the illegally obtained assets will be used for the benefit of Ukraine.

"I congratulate all Ukrainians on the fact that the yacht "Royal Romance" has come under the flag of Ukraine! I would like to emphasise that we will do everything possible to ensure that all the illegally obtained and moved abroad property will be returned to the jurisdiction of Ukraine," said Olena Duma