President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with President of the Italian Republic Sergio Mattarella.
The Ukrainian leader noted that this meeting reaffirmed the sincere friendship and mutual respect between the peoples of Ukraine and Italy.
“Thank you for your words of support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. I want to thank all the people of Italy, the Prime Minister, and you, dear Mr. President, for the assistance provided to our country. And for your principled recognition that this war brought by Putin is a great evil,” said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
He emphasized that Ukraine is doing everything possible to achieve a just and sustainable peace. Meanwhile, the Russian Federation rejects all constructive proposals and shows only a desire to continue its aggression. Therefore, progress towards peace is possible solely through strengthening sanctions and pressure on Russia, and by reinforcing Ukraine’s defensive capabilities.
The presidents discussed support for Ukraine’s efforts to return Ukrainian children illegally deported to the Russian Federation.
The meeting also covered the launch of the Special Tribunal on the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine. The Ukrainian President called on Italy to ratify the Agreement on the Establishment of a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Russian Aggression Against Ukraine so that Italy can participate fully in these efforts and the tribunal can begin operating as soon as possible.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed particular gratitude to Italy for hosting the Ukraine Recovery Conference. According to him, our country’s reconstruction must also serve as a catalyst for its deep transformation. Ukraine is interested in engaging Italian businesses in the recovery efforts.
The President of Italy noted that more than 500 Italian companies will take part in the Ukraine Recovery Conference tomorrow. Concrete agreements and decisions are expected.
The heads of state discussed Ukraine’s path toward the EU, including Ukraine’s fulfillment of all conditions necessary to open accession negotiations, involving partners in peace talks, and the need for increased pressure on Russia to deprive the aggressor of economic tools for waging war.
