Main attention of the negotiations was concentrated on the pressing issues of cooperation between Ukraine and Italy in the context of intensified Ukrainian-Italian political dialogue at all levels and preparation for important events on the bilateral agenda.

Special attention was paid to exchange views on issues of cooperation between Ukraine and the European Union, including the implementation of the agreements reached during the Ukraine-EU Summit last February, visa regime liberalization, "Eastern Partnership" prospects, energy security issues.

The Italian side confirmed its support for Ukraine's European aspirations, taking into account the progress of our country in the way of preparation for the signing of the Ukraine-EU Association Agreement.

Deputy Foreign Minister Andrii Olefirov also met with Deputy Chairman of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, Head of the Italian delegation to the PACE Sandro Gozi.

The issues of bilateral cooperation, including ways to enhance inter-parliamentary contacts between Ukraine and Italy were discussed during the meeting. In this context, the parties confirmed the effectiveness of parliamentary “groups of friends” of Ukraine and Italy as a key instrument of cooperation between the legislatures of the two countries.

They also exchanged views on the role of the Council of Europe in the european institutional system and the prospects of further bilateral cooperation within PACE. In particular, it was noted proximity of positions of both countries on a number of issues on the Organization’s agenda, including the implementation of its reform.