“ We are very proud of the level achieved in our bilateral cooperation and are confident we will further consolidate it. We welcome the efforts accomplished by the Emirati government in its economic diversification process. Italian enterprises are ready to contribute in many sectors, starting from energy and infrastructures, and also cultural exchanges.” These were the words addressed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Angelino Alfano, to his colleague from the United Arab Emirates, Abdallah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, during their meeting in New York, on the sidelines of the United Nations 72nd General Assembly.
During the talks, the two ministers focused not only on economic issues but also on international current events. With regard to the crisis in the Gulf Countries, Minister Alfano recalled that “Italy’s top priority in the regional political agenda is the fight against extremism amd terrorism.We are convinced that it is fundamental to keep the dispute within the scope of international law, avoid an escalation of the crisis and only undertake diplomatic efforts to achieve a solution.”
With regard to Libya, the head of the Farnesina highlighted how “the UAE are an essential interlocutor. We are aware of the extended network of contacts Abu Dhabi has in the region, and appreciate the positive collaboration we have developed over time. Hence, we rely on Abu Dhabi’s support to the action of the new Special Representative Ghassan Salamé, and to the central role played by the UN in the regional and international endeavours to favour an inclusive political process and the full implementation of the Political Agreement.”
