All talks focused on Russian aggression against Ukraine and the response to this unprecedented threat to security and stability in Europe. Deputy Minister Szynkowski vel Sęk underlined that further reports on crimes committed by Russian troops in the occupied cities and towns of Ukraine clearly show the impossibility to resume cooperation with Russia on conditions from before its assault on Ukraine. In particular, this applies to security cooperation to which NATO is a party.

He noted that the only possible solution to the conflict is the complete withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine’s territory and Russia's recognition of the territorial integrity of the Ukrainian state. The deputy head of Polish diplomacy called on his Italian partners to keep exercising pressure on Russia through further sanctions and an immediate halt of import of Russian fossil fuels. He also encouraged his interlocutors to support Ukraine’s European aspirations. Discussed were also ways of providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine and support to Ukrainian refugees. Deputy Minister Szynkowski vel Sęk appreciated the Italy’s support to Ukrainian refugees in the country and the Ukrainian government.

The talks also covered strengthening NATO’s eastern flank and preparations for the North Atlantic Alliance summit in Madrid in June. The officials also referred to possible exclusion of Russia from international organisations, or limiting its influence where exclusion is not possible. Key issues in Polish-Italian cooperation were debated during the meeting with Deputy Foreign Minister Benedetto Della Vedova. The interlocutors stressed their willingness to strengthen political, economic, cultural and scientific relations, as well as to intensify cooperation within the European Union and NATO.

 

 

Łukasz Jasina
MFA Press Spokesperson