ROME
U.S. President Barack Obama and Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi have met in Rome to discuss recent developments in Ukraine and the American president has taken the opportunity to praise Renzi's reform plans and affirm Italy's status as an important ally of the U.S.
At a joint press conference with Renzi, after their meeting, Obama described the International Monetary Fund's decision to provide Ukraine with a US$14-18 billion loan as an important step, adding that it was a concrete signal of the world's support for Kiev. He continued saying that they will do their best to support Ukraine in attaining economic stability and in holding elections in the near future.
Responding to a question at the press conference Obama said, "the sanctions against Russia will be designed in such a way that the effects on American and Italian corporations will be minimal while effecting Russia more. I hope Russia will be peaceful on solving the Ukraine crisis." However, he took pains to state that it is not a 'cold war' period.
Renzi emphasized that the "reaction of the U.S. and Europe is the same."
englishnews@aa.com.tr
