This evening, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Antonio Tajani, held a telephone conversation with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates, Abdullah Bin Zayed, to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral relations and to exchange views on key international issues, including recent developments in the Middle East, Ukraine, and Sudan.
On bilateral cooperation, the two Ministers agreed to further enhance exchanges through collaboration on the IMEC corridor, a key driver of opportunities for businesses in both countries. Abu Dhabi remains a strategic partner for Italy and its largest economic partner in the MENA region.
Concerning Gaza, Minister Tajani reaffirmed Italy’s support and continued dialogue with the Palestinian National Authority, noting the upcoming visit of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to Rome on 12 December. The Ministers also addressed humanitarian corridors to the Gaza Strip, emphasising the urgency of ensuring unobstructed aid flows. Minister Tajani highlighted the imminent departure from Brindisi of new Food For Gaza aid shipments, totalling approximately 100 tonnes.
Regarding reconstruction, Tajani confirmed Italy’s intention to play a leading role ahead of the Cairo Conference, recalling Italy’s first contribution of EUR 60 million, with a focus on health and the private sector.
On Ukraine, Minister Tajani reiterated Italy’s support for US-led efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace, expressing appreciation for Abu Dhabi’s role in facilitating dialogue and supporting ongoing mediation. He also thanked the UAE for its commitments at the Rome Conference on Ukraine’s reconstruction.
With respect to Sudan, Minister Tajani thanked his counterpart for the joint negotiation efforts with the United States and other Arab countries towards a ceasefire. He also recalled the launch of the humanitarian initiative “Italy for Sudan”, aimed at delivering aid to civilians, and noted that Italy is arranging the departure of a ship carrying emergency supplies to Port Sudan to assist refugees currently in the city.
