Thank you Mr. President,
Italy aligns itself with the statement that will be delivered by the European Union and I would like here to add few words in my national capacity.
Today’s plenary meeting is another opportunity for us to reiterate Italy’s unwavering support for Ukraine in its pursuit of a just and lasting peace – one firmly rooted in the principles of sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
On the occasion of Ukraine’s Independence Day, last 24 August, Italy paid a heartfelt tribute to the strength and courage of the Ukrainian people, who have been steadfastly defending their independence, freedom, and national identity for over three years.Today, we are convened here after the recent and most brutal Russian attacks in Ukraine, another clear breach of international law. Italy reiterates its full commitment to addressing the profound humanitarian consequences related to the conflict.
One of the main objectives that we should pursue is ensuring full support to the Ukrainian civilian population, which is under heavy attack by the Russian army. Our thoughts go to the Ukrainian people, to civilians, to the families of defenceless victims, including children. In this respect, Italy highlights the importance of ensuring the return of Ukrainian children taken by Russia, an issue on which Italy is also engaged through the dedicated international coalition.
There is an urgent need for an immediate ceasefire and meaningful negotiations for peace. Only a diplomatic solution to the conflict, based on the UN Charter and international law, with the full involvement of Ukraine and Europe can lead to a just, lasting and comprehensive peace. We firmly believe that the full implementation of these principles is not only in the interest of Ukraine and Europe, but also of the entire UN membership, since they are the foundations that hold the international community together.
In this respect, we welcome the efforts led by the United States to achieve such a peace. Italy reiterates its willingness to contribute to effective negotiations and stresses the importance of ensuring robust and credible security guarantees for Ukraine.
Unwavering support for independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine has been a priority for Italy since the beginning of the conflict. While strongly backing the European Union initiatives, Italy is also contributing to ensure Ukraine’s resilience and intends to play an active role in the social and economic recovery of the Country, as well as its reconstruction. In this spirit, last July we hosted in Rome the Ukraine Recovery Conference which saw, among other things, the participation of over 2,000 companies and secured €10 billion euros in commitments, with more than 200 agreements signed. Together we will lay the foundations for a prosperous independent Ukraine.
We remain committed to collaborating with all partners ready to support peace efforts. Now is the time to intensify our collective efforts to achieve this goal.
Thank you.
