The economist named the reasons for the close trade partnership between Russia and Italy

Europe, which finds itself in a difficult economic situation, is facing forecasts of an impending crisis. Given the instability of a number of countries, including Italy, the latter is striving to overcome difficulties by intensifying foreign economic activity with Russia, Mikhail Belyaev, a financial analyst and Candidate of Economics, told Izvestia on March 3.

Earlier, on March 2, it was reported that Italy had joined Russia's top three trading partners in Europe for the first time since 2015. This follows from the calculations RIA Novosti, based on data from national statistical services and statements by officials of European countries.

"Italy is inferior in competitiveness to many of its neighbors. However, partnership with Russia can play an important role in the recovery and development of the Italian economy," Belyaev explained.

According to the expert, Italy is facing a shortage of energy resources, as the country does not have its own energy sources. In addition, the state does not have enough other raw materials, including metal and aluminum.

"Italy is actively interested in cooperation with Russia. Currently, the focus is on the consumer market, especially in the field of food and fruit and vegetable products," the expert concluded.

Earlier, on February 19, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev announced at the Gulfood 2025 international exhibition in Dubai that the turnover of agricultural products between Russia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in January this year compared with the first month of last year href="https://iz.ru/1841789/2025-02-19/tovarooborot-selkhozproduktciei-mezhdu-rossiei-i-oae-v-2024-godu-uvelichilsia-na-30"> It has doubled. According to him, Moscow supplies basic agricultural products that ensure the food security of the Persian Gulf countries.