"Friendship, dialogue, strengthening of bilateral cooperation and cultural exchange — there are the keywords that best describe the atmosphere of today’s meeting with President Putin […] The friendship between Italy and Russia has huge potential that we are developing, investing our efforts on a daily basis to ensure security, well-being and equality," Conte wrote on Facebook late on Thursday.

The Italian prime minister noted that he had profound discussions with the Russian president on a wide range of international issues.

"We have agreed that there is a need for an open and comprehensive approach to dialogue which should promote the settlement of the most important regional crises — from Libya to Syria to Ukraine to Venezuela. I am convinced that Moscow may play a leading role in the settlement of these crises," Conte added.

Italy and Russia enjoyed "deep perception of culture and strong love for multiple forms of artistic expression in the legacy of the humankind," Conte noted.

The Italian prime minister emphasized that Moscow and Rome enjoyed "wonderful" cooperation in culture and science.

The head of the Italian cabinet maintained that he appreciated Putin’s comments about Italy and its government, which he compared to gestures of appreciation noted during the formers October 2018 visit to Moscow.

Putin visited Italy on Thursday for talks with Conte and President Sergio Mattarella. The Russian president also visited the Vatican for a meeting with Pope Francis.

In an interview with the Italian Corriere della Sera newspaper, published ahead of his Italian trip, Putin hailed "an absolute consensus" between Italian political parties on the need to develop good relations with Russia.