March 20, Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine Arsen Avakov met with Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Italy to Ukraine Davide La Cecilia.

The parties discussed the possibility of expanding bilateral cooperation and countering organized crime.

"We look forward to further constructive cooperation and active support by Italy for our efforts in reforming the civilian security sector of our country", Arsen Avakov said.

The Minister stressed that Italy plays an important role in the pan-European system for combating organized crime.

"Given current challenges and threats, we should strengthen the bilateral format of interaction, including the exchange of operational information", said Arsen Avakov.

He expressed hope that Italy will continue support and tighten sanctions against the Russian Federation in response to its aggressive actions against Ukraine.

In turn, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Davide La Cecilia assured the Minister that Italy demonstrates support for Ukraine on the path of reforms and commends the progress that have already been achieved by official Kyiv.

Arsen Avakov and Davide La Cecilia discussed the completion of the pre-trial investigation in the case of the National Guard officer Vitalii Markiv.