The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani, today chaired a new meeting by video link with the Italian Ambassadors in Lebanon, Israel, Jordan, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman, in addition to the Consul General in Jerusalem. The aim of the meeting was to take stock of the political and security situation in the Middle East and of Italian action to foster peace and stability in the region.
"Italy continues to follow the evolution of the situation in the Middle East at the forefront," Tajani indicated. "Despite the ceasefire efforts, we observe with concern an increase in the intensity of clashes in Gaza and along the Blue Line," the Minister continued. The meeting provided an opportunity to review the dynamics at play at the regional level, with a particular focus on the negotiations facilitated by the United States, the political process in Lebanon and the security situation in the countries neighbouring the conflict such as Jordan and Iraq.
On the Italian diplomatic action front, the minister recalled his mission to Jerusalem and Ramallah and noted that "the humanitarian conference promoted at the G7 in Pescara had been an important success, bringing together representatives of Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian Authority in the same event". The holder of the Farnesina urged the assembled Ambassadors to continue to raise the awareness of all regional interlocutors in order to help bring about a ceasefire. "The upcoming G7 Foreign Ministers' meeting in Fiuggi and the Mediterranean Dialogues days at the end of November represent an important moment to this end".
Tajani stressed Italy's humanitarian commitment to the region, starting with the 'Food for Gaza' initiative. "Italy continues to be committed to trying to alleviate the suffering of the populations affected by the conflict. We are also ready to play our part in the future reconstruction of the Strip and Lebanon, contributing to the security and stability of Israel through the presence of our UNIFIL soldiers," the Vice President indicated.
Finally, during the meeting, particular attention was paid to the security of Italian compatriots and personnel working in the various diplomatic offices and military missions in the region.
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