Italian Ambassador Paolo Toschi has highlighted the robust and growing relationship between Italy and Qatar, emphasising their shared commitment to regional stability, particularly in addressing the conflict in Palestine and Lebanon.
“This is an important time in the relationship between Italy and Qatar because of several conversations that are maturing and bearing fruit,” Toschi told Gulf Times in an exclusive interview, where he discussed the role of regional diplomacy and crisis management, humanitarian efforts, bilateral relations between Italy and Qatar, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange and dialogue in addressing regional challenges.
According to the ambassador, Italy views Qatar as a strategic partner and values its role in promoting peace and dialogue. Both countries are actively engaged in humanitarian efforts, providing substantial aid to Gaza and Lebanon through various UN agencies, Toschi pointed out.
“His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni are engaged as actors of peace by supporting dialogue, diplomacy, and the peaceful resolution of disputes at a time when the region is going through a tragic and deep crisis,” he emphasised.
The ambassador also said, “Italy has been very clear that there needs to be a state for Palestine. There must be continuity between Gaza and the West Bank, and a sustainable security platform for Palestine, to which Italy is ready to contribute.”
“We continue to call upon all parties to end violence against civilians and to respect both international and humanitarian law. We are taking action also as chair of the G7 as we continue to support Qatar’s diplomatic work to identify a solution in accord with the other involved parties,” Toschi noted.
Similarly on Lebanon, Toschi recalled that Italy has taken the lead in a G7 initiative calling parties to uphold UN Security Council Resolution 1701, “which is the foundation of a sustainable asset for Lebanon.”
“We are engaged to support Lebanese authorities, which is very much in line with what Qatar is doing, strengthening the foundation of Lebanese institutions,” the ambassador further stressed.
“Both in Gaza and Lebanon, like Qatar, we are engaged in delivering humanitarian and food assistance, in coordination with UN agencies like the World Food Programme, UNHCR, and UNRWA, to provide food and other forms of support,” Toschi explained, adding that Italy’s recent assistance includes a €17mn emergency aid for Lebanon and two packages of food aid respectively worth €35mn and €12mn for Gaza.
The ambassador also noted that the Italy-Qatar bilateral relationship extends beyond diplomacy and continues to expand collaboration in sectors like investment, energy (including gas markets and renewables), defence, and military cooperation. “Both countries are also exploring opportunities in food security, biotech, life sciences, and urban management,” Toschi said.
According to Toschi, cultural exchange is also seen as a crucial element in fostering understanding and peace, “especially during times of crisis.” He added: “Italy and Qatar view culture as a unifying factor and a means for dialogue. We believe culture can provide context, build bridges between people, and contribute to conversations about peace.”
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Italian Ambassador Paolo Toschi. PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam
