Draghi, maintain EU unity on Ukrainian energy and hospitality

"The EU has shown extraordinary unity. We are united in responding to President Zelensky's call for financial, humanitarian and military aid. This unity is our main strength and it is essential to maintain it" in aspects such as "the reception "of Ukrainians and" energy protection "of citizens and businesses.

Prime Minister Mario Draghi said this in the joint statement with the President of the EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen before their meeting in Brussels. 

"The EU - underlines Draghi - has shown extraordinary unity. We are united in responding to the appeal of President Zelensky who asked us for financial, humanitarian and military aid. This unity is our main strength and it is essential to maintain it" in aspects such as the "reception" of Ukrainians and the "energy protection" of citizens and businesses.

"We must make sure - said von der Leyen - that there are no loopholes and that the effect of the 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, we are naturally also working on further sanctions".

THE STATEMENT

"In recent days - said Draghi - the Financial Security Committee of the Ministry of Economy approved important asset freezing measures against Russian oligarchs, which were promptly carried out. The Bank of Italy asked the institutes to credit 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 with the utmost speed. "

"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 ".