Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani emphasized the need to strengthen Ukraine’s position and pave the way toward its full membership in the European Union.
He made the statement ahead of a meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Helsingborg.
“Regarding Ukraine, we must do what is necessary to strengthen Ukraine’s position. We support Ukraine’s full membership in the European Union, but we need to pave the way to achieve this goal,” Tajani said.
He added that Italy is ready “to do more to comply with European rules,” with the aim of achieving
“Ukraine’s full membership in the EU together with the Western Balkan countries.”
The Italian foreign minister also stressed the importance of NATO in maintaining peace.
“NATO is critical. It is not only a military alliance, it is also a political alliance. NATO is crucial for peace. Without NATO, it will be difficult to strengthen peace in the world,” he said.
Tajani also assured that Italy is a “strong supporter of NATO” and is ready to increase defense spending. According to him, Europe must strengthen its own defense component.
“One strong pillar is America. The second strong pillar is Europe,” Tajani emphasized.
