The relationship between Russia and Italy goes back a long way. Unlike many other Western European countries, Italy has traditionally always maintained good relationships with Russia, even during the Soviet era. Russia enjoys close relations with Italy. In 2006, Russia and Italy signed a protocol of cooperation for fighting crime and defending civil liberties. <span>The </span>Silvio Berlusconi<span> Governments (2001–2006 and 2008-2011) strengthened Italy's ties with Russia.</span>
The Abbasid dynasty fell to the Mongols and became part of the Mongol empire
