On Tuesday, February 15, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a phone conversation with Prime Minister of the Italian Republic Mario Draghi.

This is reported by the press service of the President of Ukraine.

The President thanked the Italian Prime Minister for his personal diplomatic efforts to resolve the security crisis around Ukraine peacefully.

The parties discussed the current situation in the region, the development of the peace process and the intensification of all existing negotiation formats, including Normandy.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed the importance of further coordination of international efforts to de-escalate the situation.

"Ukraine stands for the political and diplomatic settlement of the conflict. We rely on Italy's support for Ukraine's approaches to a peaceful settlement within the EU, NATO, and the OSCE," the President stressed.

Particular attention was paid to further practical cooperation, in particular to the increase of Ukraine's defense and financial stability in the face of current challenges.

"Italy’s support in strengthening the defense capabilities of our state is important for us," said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The interlocutors also discussed topical issues of bilateral cooperation.

The President invited the Prime Minister to visit Ukraine at his convenience.