Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has announced that the Italian Republic is ready to send a new package of military assistance with increased air defense for Ukraine and agreed on a new package of EUR 140 million for measures to develop Ukrainian infrastructure.

"I completely agree with Dmytro [Kuleba] when he says that the primary strategy for restoration, for reconstruction, is the protection of Ukrainian infrastructure, Ukrainian buildings with the help of an air defense system. And that's why I want to inform you that Italy is ready to send a new military package with SAMP/T for the air defense of Ukraine," he said at the panel session dubbed "United in Defense. Merged in the update. Stronger together" on the sidelines of the conference on the reconstruction of Ukraine in Berlin on Tuesday.

The minister also stressed that Italy is ready not only to provide military assistance to Ukraine, but also to provide support in other various sectors.

"There is a second piece of news. A new package of EUR 140 million for measures on infrastructure, railways, healthcare, agrarian-food sector, humanitarian sector, as well as mining. This is a new, latest decision of the Italian government," Tajani said.

He also reminded that EUR 45 million was allocated on the restoration of the historical center of Odesa.

"Today we signed a memorandum with the Ukrainian Government on our cooperation in these important sectors. Also, at the level of culture. I would like to emphasize this moment because it is important for Italy to support the restoration of the cathedral [in Odesa]. It is a part of UNESCO," the minister said, adding that "cultural heritage is very important as Ukraine is a part of Europe."

The minister also stressed that Italy is ready to invest in Ukraine.

"You can count on us. You can count on Italy," Tajani said.