Prefer E5 format but London E3 meeting is no big deal says Tajani

Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister

Antonio Tajani on Monday said it was no big deal with Italy did

not take part in Sunday's meeting in London involving the

leaders of Britain, France and Germany with Ukrainian President

Volodymyr Zelensky.

"I prefer an E5 format with Italy and Poland, but there's an E3

format that has always existed, and yesterday that format met in

London," Tajani said on the sidelines of an Italy-Norway

business forum at the foreign ministry in Rome.

"That said, we continue to support Ukraine and continue to do

our bit.

"We'll also be an important part of the peace building, which

isn't easy, but we'll be there both at the European level and as

a country (on a bilateral basis)".

German government spokesman Stefan Kornelius also stressed that

Rome was not considered surplus to requirements.

"Poland and Italy are also closely involved in the process,"

Kornelius told a news conference.

"There is ongoing dialogue with European partners.

"The E3 is a proven format; it has been seen in recent weeks and

months that a small group can prepare for progress.

"However, this doesn't mean that other European partners aren't

involved.

"One of the essential conditions for Germany is not to go it

alone and that there is teamwork and coordination. The German

government ensures this".

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © Copyright ANSA