"Why everyone is silent when France signs accords with Russia? If we sign the agreements with Russia we will be targeted by political attacks in Europe. Everyone is doing business with Russia," Grimoldi said on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), citing the recent visit of French President Emmanuel Macron that had resulted in the signing of a number of accords.
The lawmaker said that the Italian government would like to have a good relationship with Russia.
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Speaking about the anti-Moscow sanctions imposed by the European Union, Grimoldi compared them with an earthquake saying that the Italian exports to Russia had decreased by more than three times after the introduction of restrictions.
"A new government would raise an issue of lifting the anti-Russia sanctions. We know that we would come under pressure, [the lifting of sanctions] would be a very difficult process, but we are committed to becoming the first European government with a platform focusing on it in its policy. Why? Because all our association of companies working with Russia ask to help them in their activities and to give them an opportunity for their workers to work," the politician said.
The SPIEF, held annually in Russia's second largest city of St. Petersburg, is a major global platform for communication between business representatives and the discussion of crucial economic issues.
Sputnik International Information Agency is the official media partner of the forum.