Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian spoke yesterday by phone with his Italian counterpart, Luigi Di Maio.
The ministers discussed the continuation of close cooperation between France and Italy in support of Ukraine, in view of the repercussions of the war in that country. They addressed options for strengthening sanctions on Russia, especially in the energy sphere.
They also spoke about the crisis in Libya, the importance of maintaining the country's stability, and holding free and transparent presidential and legislative elections as soon as possible. They agreed to work together to find a diplomatic solution to the current deadlock.
Lastly, the two ministers reviewed the situation in Mali, particularly in the wake of the attempted manipulation of information near the Gossi base.