The Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Antonio Tajani, met at the Farnesina with the Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs, Prince Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud.
The agenda of the meeting first addressed international issues, notably the Middle East and the crisis in Gaza, on which the two Ministers signed a joint declaration in which Italy and Saudi Arabia call for the immediate release of hostages, unhindered access for humanitarian aid, and condemn any unilateral or violent action in the West Bank that undermines the two-State solution.
Minister Tajani recalled Italy’s humanitarian commitment to alleviating the suffering of the population through the Food for Gaza initiative and the medical evacuations that have so far involved 181 Palestinian children. Recalling Italy’s active participation in the New York Conference on the two-State solution promoted by Saudi Arabia and France, the Minister confirmed Italy’s readiness to work on a plan for the governance and security of Gaza, centred on the Palestinian Authority, as well as on reconstruction efforts. Tajani further confirmed that Italy stands ready to contribute to a protection mission under UN auspices with Arab leadership. On Middle Eastern stability, the Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs stressed the crucial role of UNIFIL and the importance of its renewal.
Talks also covered Ukraine and prospects for a just and lasting peace in light of the meetings held in Alaska and Washington.
The Ministers agreed to deepen the already strong partnership between the two countries, marked by an intense schedule of meetings and trade exceeding EUR 10 billion in 2024. Minister Tajani highlighted alternative energy and hydrogen as among the most promising sectors for future cooperation, also within the framework of Italy’s Export Plan, as well as in the field of defence.
Finally, the Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs confirmed Italy’s interest in strengthening cooperation with Riyadh under the framework of the Cotton Road, given the key role the Gulf country can play in the realisation of the project.
