“The very fact of negotiations and a visit is a demonstration of the fact that relations are now quite positive and that they will only continue to develop. This is especially important in the framework of two events. First of all, new governing bodies of the European Union are being formed, and Italy in this part will have its serious proposals and influence on the new course of the EU. On the other hand, changes in the EU sanctions policy towards Russia due to the Ukrainian crisis are outlined. We see the intensification of work in the Norman format, preparation for possible changes. In this regard, meetings with such major players as Italy are important, ”the expert believes.
Solonnikov noted that the visit of the Russian leader to Italy is the beginning of the changes that will occur both in the internal European policy and in the external one.
“Of course, these negotiations will be able to influence the relations between Russia and the EU. Italy is one of the most important members of the European Union and this meeting cannot be viewed exclusively in the Russia-Italy format. Implicitly, this refers to relations with the entire EU, ”he said.
Earlier, Putin arrived on an official visit to Italy.