MOSCOW (Sputnik), Anastasia Levchenko — On Wednesday, Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi told the Japanese Nikkei newspaper that Western countries must not isolate Russia, as it plays a major role in resolving international problems.
"The sanctions are considerably hitting the Italian economy, that is simply a fact. I am afraid that these sanctions might be worsened, which would mean not only to lose market shares but also, and more importantly, that the diplomatic approach might not succeed," Grande told Sputnik.
Therefore, "Italy should keep on strengthening its relations with Russia on those fields in which we have always excelled," Grande said.
It is precisely because of the Ukrainian crisis that Russia and the West must engage in a constructive dialogue, concentrating on the diplomatic means of problem solving, the Italian parliamentarian stressed.
"Without any doubt Russia is an important political player, both at regional and international level. It is also clear that the Ukrainian crisis is exacerbating the tensions between Russia and the so-called West. In my opinion, despite the crisis and precisely because of the crisis, it is fundamental to continue on the diplomatic path paved during the Minsk agreement," Grande said.
The Five Star Movement and Lega Nord political parties criticize the government support of the US stance and continuation of anti-Russia sanctions. M5S delegates intend to visit the Crimea region in September-October 2015.
