The Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani, met with the Lebanese Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants, Abdallah Bou Habib, this afternoon at the Farnesina.
The Deputy Prime Minister first of all wished to recall the strong friendship between Italy and Lebanon and the deep historical, political and cultural ties that characterise relations between the two peoples.
The two Ministers then discussed the main regional dynamics, also in the light of Syria’s recent readmission to the Arab League, focusing in particular on the issue of migration flows. Tajani praised the efforts and generosity with which the Lebanese people and authorities have welcomed Syrian refugees in recent years and managed the socio-economic impact of their presence. He then reiterated the Italian government’s firm commitment to supporting Lebanon’s security and stability, while expressing the hope that a new President would be elected as soon as possible.
With regard to bilateral economic cooperation, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasised the Italian private sector’s interest in the Lebanese market. Indeed, thanks to their expertise and strong ties with local counterparts, Italian companies are confirmed, according to Tajani, as “ideal partners for the development of Lebanon, particularly in the energy, agro-industrial and infrastructure sectors.”
Finally, the Deputy Prime Minister recalled Italy’s firm support for the UNIFIL mission, which plays a fundamental role in maintaining peace and stability in the region. “We are proud to contribute our troops to the UN mission,” he commented, “and we strongly confirm our commitment to the stability of Lebanon and the welfare of its people.” “You can count on Italy to guarantee the security and stability of the country,” concluded the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
