(Finance) – “The EU has shown extraordinary unity”. The Premier said so Mario Draghi in the joint statement with the president of the EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen before their meeting a Brussels, underlining that “this unity is our main strength and it is essential to maintain it” in aspects such as “welcoming” Ukrainians and “energy protection” of citizens and businesses. “We are united in responding to President Zelensky’s call for financial, humanitarian and military aid,” she added.
In recent days – said Draghi – the Financial Security Committee of the Ministry of Economy approved important freezing measures for Russian oligarchs, which were promptly carried out. The Bank of Italy asked the credit institutions to communicate the freezing measures applied, and to provide details on the subjects involved and on the value and nature of the assets. I want to thank the Minister of Economy, the Bank of Italy and the Guardia di Finanza for their excellent work. We must all act as quickly as possible. “
“Italy is working to rapidly reduce its dependence on Russian gas. On Saturday I heard the Emir of Qatar, Al Thani, on the phone, with whom I discussed in particular how to strengthen energy cooperation between our countries. I want to thank Minister Cingolani – who is here with me today – and Minister Di Maio for their commitment on this front “.
“We have to make sure – said von der Leyen – that there are no loopholes and that the effect of sanctions is maximized. The sanctions in place are really biting, we see the turbulence on the Russian economy “. But given” the evolution of the situation in Ukraine “and the” reckless attack by the Kremlin on citizens, women, children, men, of course we are also working on further sanctions “.