Upon Minister Tajani’s instructions, The Undersecretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Maria Tripodi, participated yesterday in Brussels in the 5th EU-Southern Neighbourhood Ministerial Meeting, dedicated to revitalizing relations with Southern Partners, as part of the works on the new Pact for the Mediterranean. She said: “At a critical moment in international relations, characterized by instability, fragmentation, and polarization, the Italian government is at the forefront for drafting an ambitious Pact with our Southern Partners that promotes stability and prosperity throughout the Mediterranean. There is huge potential for economic growth and the promotion of sustainable investment that we need to grasp, especially to foster greater regional connectivity, also with a view to connecting Europe and Africa to Asia.”
This morning, the Undersecretary participated in the Foreign Affairs Council. Several items were on the agenda: Georgia; EU-CELAC relations; Somalia; Ukraine; Gaza. Regarding Ukraine, while reiterating Italy’s firm and ongoing support for the country, the Undersecretary recalled the Ukraine Recovery Conference held in Rome: “We succeeded in reaffirming the unity of the West, with the presence of the European Union leaders and European and American allies. Over 200 agreements were signed, and the European Fund for the Reconstruction of Ukraine was created. Italy announced a commitment of €200 million to Ukraine and signed more than 15 agreements with the country in every sector.” The Undersecretary reaffirmed the need to continue pressuring Russia to cease hostilities, and then confirmed Italy’s support for the 18th package of sanctions.
With regard to Gaza, Undersecretary Tripodi stated that it is necessary to continue supporting the mediation efforts of the United States, Egypt, and Qatar for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and adequate humanitarian assistance. She emphasized that the Italian government has always clearly expressed to Israel the urgency of ensuring humanitarian access and UN activities in the Gaza Strip. At the same time, the Undersecretary emphasized that open and constructive dialogue with Israel is essential if assistance is to be provided to the Palestinian population, and that Italy opposes a suspension of political dialogue with Israel or the EU-Israel Association Agreement.