The President of Italy, Sergio Mattarella, has stated that the peace after the war must be fair for Ukraine and also expressed his support for the country's EU accession as soon as possible.

According to ANSA, he said this during a meeting with the Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal in the Quirinal Palace.

The leaders discussed topical areas of cooperation, including in the financial, defence and sanctions spheres.

"Italy is strongly in favour of Ukraine's adhesion to the European Union as soon as possible and we appreciate the commitment of its government to the path of reforms taken to respect the EU parameters," the Italian president said.

Credit: Official website of the President of Italy

Matarella noted that Italy is determined to fully support Ukraine in all areas and as long as it is necessary.

"The defence of the independence, liberty and territorial integrity of Ukraine is a fundamental value for all the countries of the world who believe in the freedom of peoples and persons. Everyone wants peace, but it must be a just peace that respects Ukraine's integrity," Mattarella.

On April 26, the Bilateral Conference on Ukraine Reconstruction was held in Rome (Ukr), with the participation of Denis Shmyhal and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, as well as other members of the government of both countries and representatives of international financial institutions.