Ukraine and Italy will deepen cooperation in the supply chain of critical raw materials. Adolfo Urso, Minister of Enterprises and Made in Italy, and Yuliia Svyrydenko, First Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine - Minister of Economy of Ukraine, signed a joint statement on the sidelines of a business forum held in Rome on 20 November.

“Italy has been and remains an important economic partner for Ukraine. Today we are taking the next step in our relations, laying a solid foundation for even closer cooperation in the future. Our countries will work together to develop value chains for critical raw materials. Attracting investment and innovative development in this area is one of Ukraine's priorities. Cooperation with Italy will help us achieve our goals,” Yuliia Svyrydenko said.

The cooperation will be developed in the following areas:

Strengthening the value chain of critical raw materials. This will primarily involve promoting safe and sustainable practices within the value chains of critical raw materials, as well as expanding commercial and investment opportunities. The partnership will aim to strengthen existing linkages and promote high standards that will meet current challenges and lay the foundation for sustainable progress in the future.

International cooperation. Ukraine and Italy will cooperate to make chains more diverse, transparent, resilient and sustainable. The countries will cooperate in key international forums that focus on the security and sustainability of these supply chains (including the Minerals Security Partnership Forum).

Research and innovation. Explore the possibility of joint research on critical materials value chains. Possible ways for cooperation include the exchange of knowledge, experience and best practices.

Mapping and exploration. Exchange of experience on exploration plans and possible cooperation between the Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA) and the State Service of Geology and Mineral Resources of Ukraine.