Italy supports “the resumption of direct Israeli-Palestinian negotiations to restart the peace process”. These were the words of Foreign Minister Giulio Terzi at the close of a meeting at the Farnesina with his Palestinian counterpart, Riad Malki. “The status quo is not an option, especially in a situation in rapid change like that of the Arab world, with all the concerns over the Syrian crisis”, added Terzi. He underscored that “progress between the Israelis and Palestinians is not just necessary but serves too to bring greater serenity to the area”.
Terzi pointed out that bilateral relations with the Palestinian National Authority are “very positive at all levels”. He announced that Rome will be hosting a meeting next autumn, led by foreign ministers and with the participation of development and economic cooperation ministers. The meeting will include a Palestinian country presentation.
In terms of Development Cooperation, since 2008 Italy has provided 100 million euros in institutional support for the Palestinian Territories. This funding has made it possible to establish the first Palestinian arbitration centre and a human rights unit in the Ministry of Justice in Ramallah. Italy is also encouraging a “step change in relations between the PNA and the European
