The Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Maria Tripodi, participated – on behalf of Foreign Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani – in the opening of the Doha Forum, a global platform established in 2000 to strengthen dialogue on major international challenges. The 2025 Forum also featured a special session dedicated to the Italy-Qatar dialogue, during which Undersecretary Tripodi reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to international stability and the key role of diplomacy. She stated: “Faced with the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, ‘justice’ means protecting civilians, upholding international law, restoring security, and promoting sustainable political solutions.” The Undersecretary also emphasized Italy’s commitment to Gaza’s reconstruction, recalling the allocation of €60 million for key sectors such as healthcare, security, infrastructure, food assistance, and institution-building, as well as Italy’s willingness to share its experience in training the Palestinian police.
Undersecretary Tripodi also delved into key international and bilateral issues with the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Al-Khulaifi, with whom he noted convergence on regional issues, as well as the recognition of Qatar’s role in negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages. The mission was carried out within the framework of strengthening political, economic, and cultural relations between Italy and Qatar, a strategic partner for Italy’s energy security and a key player in trade that reached €3.1 billion in the first eight months of 2025.
In the meeting with Sheikha Al-Mayassa, President of Qatar Museums, Undersecretary Tripodi discussed the prospects for cultural cooperation, starting with the Declaration of Intent signed in Rome in October 2024. Topics such as the Qatar-Italy Year of Culture 2028, the launch of Italian courses at the ACS International School, university collaboration, and the progress of the Italian Archaeological Mission at Al Zubarah were finally addressed.
