Italian envoy lauds Qatar’s contributions to regional stability and prosperity

Italian ambassador Paolo Toschi has praised Qatar’s efforts in promoting stability and prosperity in the Gulf region, which, he stressed, is making advancements in political, diplomatic and infrastructural integration."Italy sees the region as strategic for a number of reasons, which include security, economic, political and cultural. And with great interest, we are seeing the region advancing in terms of political and diplomatic integration, as well as infrastructural integration, with new transport infrastructure that is being designed to connect the region further,” Toschi told Gulf Times.According to the ambassador, Italy values the growth in trade being witnessed across the region. This, he emphasised, is empowering the region globally.He said, "And within that, we value the role of Qatar as a regional player – as a force for good that can contribute to regional stability and prosperity. Everything that Qatar does to contribute to regional prosperity, stability and harmony is very valuable to us."And I think it contributes to avenues that are as different as trade and retail to culture, to education, and to political instability issues, so it is very precious and has a deep impact.”Toschi also underscored Qatar and Italy’s political partnership, which, according to him, has reached the level of a strategic dialogue. "We’re looking forward to the next session of the strategic dialogue when it will be announced by both parties,” he pointed out.He said, "We’re truly looking forward to seeing this new institutional page that is being written by HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani, to whom I wish to extend my warmest wishes for his new position.”Aside from the political sphere, Toschi said Qatar and Italy have partnerships in defence and security, energy, infrastructure and transport sectors, as well as in retail, education and culture.The ambassador added, "We are proud to have ever more structured bonds in the cultural world, thanks to the engagement of prominent figures, including HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani."We value her contribution very much and we value the Ministry of Culture’s efforts, as well. For us, culture is really a cornerstone of our partnership, so there are lots that both countries do together.”