The Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani, will be in Berlin today to attend a meeting with the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Germany, France, Poland, and Spain, which will be joined by the UK Minister and EU High Representative Kallas.
The agenda of the meeting, which follows the one in Warsaw on 19 November, features the situation in Syria, the development of European defence, and support for Ukraine in order to achieve a just peace. Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sybiha was also invited for this last item.
“In view of the multiplication of crisis scenarios, today’s meeting is essential to strengthen our coordination and make Europe’s voice heard,” said Minister Tajani.
With regard to the situation in Syria, the Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs will reiterate the need to uphold an inclusive transition and the protection of the country’s minorities. “What is needed is a pragmatic approach, involving a close connection with all regional actors, starting with Turkey,” said Tajani. The Minister will then focus on the need for the EU to increase investments in the defence sector, in complementarity with NATO and through innovative solutions for their financing.
Moving on to Ukraine, Italy’s commitment as the G7 President to Kiev will be recalled, as also emerged at the last Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Fiuggi-Anagni. At the meeting, the Minister will confirm Italy’s financial and military support to help defend the country from Russian aggression and to encourage the start of negotiations for a just, comprehensive, lasting peace.
