The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Antonio Tajani, is on a mission to Ashdod, Israel, today, accompanied by the Minister of University and Research, Anna Maria Bernini, to attend the reception ceremony for the humanitarian aid shipment donated by Italy to the World Food Programme (WFP) and essential supplies destined for Gaza, as part of the “Food for Gaza” initiative. The aid shipment consists of 15 trucks and an additional 15 tonnes of essential goods, including water distribution tanks and winter relief items to mitigate the impact of the cold season.
During the latest “Food for Gaza” coordination meeting on 22 January, it was decided—together with Minister Bernini—to expand the initiative by increasing the number of scholarships for young Palestinians and involving Italian university hospitals in humanitarian efforts.
Highlighting Italy’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian relief in Gaza, Minister Tajani recalled that since 7 October, Italy has allocated €104 million for humanitarian aid and immediate recovery efforts, to address the crisis and support development in the West Bank, as well as for humanitarian transport within the “Food for Gaza” initiative.
During the mission, Minister Tajani will also hold talks with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar. This will mark their third meeting, following Tajani’s visit to Tel Aviv and Jerusalem on 20 January, and Sa’ar’s visit to Rome on 14 January. Their discussions will focus on the implementation of the ceasefire, as well as prospects for reviving the peace process and reconstructing Gaza.
Additionally, Minister Tajani is scheduled to meet with Italian military personnel and experts deployed in Palestine as part of the EUBAM Rafah, MIADIT Palestine, and EUPOL COPPS missions. On behalf of the Italian Government, he will express gratitude for their daily efforts in supporting the civilian population and contributing to stabilisation efforts in the Middle East.
