Turin uni wrong to pull out of Israel tender says Bernini

(ANSA) - ROME, MAR 20 - University Minister Anna Maria Bernini said Wednesday that Turin university's Senate was "wrong" in deciding not to take part in a scientific tender with Israel in protest at the civilian deaths caused by Israel in Gaza, after pro-Palestinian leftwing collectives occupied the Senate building.
    "I do not agree with the University of Turin's decision, even though it was taken within the autonomy of universities," said the minister for universities and research.
    "It is sad that such a choice coincides with the first national day of the universities, which is entitled 'Open Doors'.
    "And it is frankly disconcerting that one can think of closing them.
    "I consider any form of exclusion or boycott to be wrong and alien to the tradition and culture of our universities, which have always been inspired by openness and inclusiveness".
    Earlier Premier Giorgia Meloni said she found it "concerning" that Turin university's Senate had apparently given in to the collectives.
    She said that "if institutions bend to these methods we risk having many problems". (ANSA).