Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with Prime Minister of the Italian Republic Giorgia Meloni.
The Head of State and the head of the Italian government discussed the cooperation between the countries and agreed on further steps during Italy's presidency of the Group of Seven (G7). The President thanked Italy for its support of defense capabilities and the reconstruction of Ukraine, which are identified as priority issues during Italy's presidency, as well as for its decision to continue providing military-technical assistance to our state until the end of 2024.
"Italy holds the presidency of the G7 this year. Therefore, we highly value its presence here today with us," said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Separately, the President thanked the Prime Minister of Italy for organizing a G7+Ukraine meeting on the occasion of the second anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion. Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted Italy's role in bringing Ukraine closer to full membership in the EU.
The Head of State also expressed gratitude for Italy's patronage over Odesa and the Italian government's plans for the reconstruction of Ukrainian historical monuments damaged in hostilities.
Following the meeting, the President of Ukraine and the Prime Minister of the Italian Republic signed a Security Cooperation Agreement between the two countries.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy summarized that this document lays a solid foundation for a long-term security partnership between Ukraine and Italy.
The agreement was signed to extend the provisions of the Joint Declaration adopted by Ukraine and G7 members in Vilnius on July 12, 2023.
The agreement outlines the main components of Italy's security commitments, including long-term military and financial assistance throughout its duration. The agreement identifies priority areas for bilateral security cooperation between Ukraine and Italy in military and non-military spheres, including political, financial, humanitarian, and reform sectors.
The document specifies that Italy will continue to address Ukraine's most urgent needs to strengthen its security capabilities. The Italian Republic has already extended the relevant legislation for 2024, allowing for further military support, and will provide assistance to Ukraine for ten years under this agreement.
Additionally, Italy will continue to contribute to the EU Mission providing military assistance to Ukraine by conducting training for servicemen.
Furthermore, the Italian Republic will continue its partnership with Odesa and the region to provide support, reconstruction, enhance resilience, and implement reforms.
Specific sections of the document outline cooperation on issues such as sanction pressure on the aggressor and holding Russia accountable.
The agreement specifies the concrete amounts of financial support and military packages provided to Ukraine by Italy since the beginning of the full-scale Russian aggression, with the commitment of the Italian Republic to continue providing such assistance throughout the ten years of the agreement's validity.
Moreover, the document confirms Italy's support for Ukraine's future NATO membership, particularly by supporting Ukrainian reforms and compatibility of Ukraine's Security and Defense Forces with the Alliance.
The agreement establishes a mechanism for 24-hour emergency response in case of renewed military aggression against Ukraine.
The document is valid for ten years from the date of signing and allows for review by the partners if Ukraine joins NATO before its expiration.
