In the framework of the working visit to the Italian Republic Mr. A.Olefirov met Deputy Chairman of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, Head of the Italian delegation to the PACE Sandro Gozi. The issues of bilateral cooperation, including ways to enhance inter-parliamentary contacts between Ukraine and Italy were discussed during the meeting. In this context, the parties confirmed the effectiveness of parliamentary “groups of friends” of Ukraine and Italy as a key instrument of cooperation between the legislatures of the two countries.

They also exchanged views on the role of the Council of Europe in the european institutional system and the prospects of further bilateral cooperation within PACE. In particular, it was noted proximity of positions of both countries on a number of issues on the Organization’s agenda, including the implementation of its reform.