KYIV - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and visiting UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday signed a 100-year partnership agreement between their countries, the presidential press service reported.

The deal stipulates that the UK will provide Ukraine with annual military assistance of at least $3.6 billion for "as long as needed", according to the statement on the presidential website.

READ MORE: Lavrov says Russia open to dialogue on security guarantees for Ukraine

It envisages deepening defense cooperation, building partnership in maritime security, and boosting economic and trade collaboration between the two nations.

Under the deal, the UK plans to expand its contribution to the modern fighter jet coalition for Ukraine, increasing training efforts and assisting with the supply of aircraft used by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member states.

READ MORE: Russia launches cruise, ballistic missile strike on Ukraine

The agreement also lays grounds for enhanced cooperation on long-range weaponry, and investment in the Ukrainian defense industry, including drones and artillery production.

Additionally, the deal includes provisions for building consensus on Ukraine's potential membership in NATO, alongside strengthening partnership in energy, justice, science, migration, and other key sectors.

Starmer arrived in Ukraine earlier in the day for his first visit since assuming the office.