A big thank you Canada from the prime minister of Ukraine.

Arseniy Yatesnyuk expressed appreciation for this country’s help in a phone call with Prime Minister Harper.

Canada plans to send 500 observers to monitor next month’s presidential election there.

The two leaders discussed the latest developments in Ukraine and condemned Russia’s occupation of Crimea and military provocations.

Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird continues his tour of eastern European capitals.

His latest stop Warsaw where he and his Polish counterpart signed a declaration of principles and pledged to work toegther to strengthen democracy in Ukraine.