Qatari-Italian strategic dialogue kicks off in Rome

The first strategic dialogue between Qatar and Italy was held yesterday in Rome, under the chairmanship of HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani and Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation Luigi Di Maio.During the dialogue, they discussed the latest developments in the region, regional issues, and international developments, in addition to exchanging views on issues of common interest.HE Sheikh Mohamed stressed that the dialogue reaffirms the determination to deepen partnership in areas of common interest for the benefit of the people of the two friendly countries. The dialogue represents a milestone in the close diplomatic relations between Qatar and Italy, especially since it comes before the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the opening of the two countries' embassies in Doha and Rome, he said.He pointed out that the dialogue provides a pivotal framework for initiatives to enhance co-operation between the two countries in various sectors.This is an opportunity to accelerate the pace of development of the bilateral relations and advance them to the aspirations of the two friendly people, he added.The dialogue also comes to express the two countries' joint commitment, which started years ago, to continue strengthening political and economic relations, and to complement the long-term vision related to developing the bilateral relationship in various fields, he continued. He pointed out that in the past 10 years, Qatar's economic partnership with Italy has grown by more than 320%, making the Italy the 8th largest trading partner of Qatar, and one of the most important destinations for Qatari investment.He added that the cultural and educational links and co-operation in innovation, science, and technology open new horizons and co-operation in the areas of health, including the response to the Covid-19 pandemic. He stressed that Qatar will remain a tool for peace and stability in the region and a reliable partner for allies and friends, pointing to Qatar's contribution to facilitating the evacuation of a number of nationals of friendly countries from Afghanistan.Qatar has worked tirelessly for the safe transit of Italian citizens and Afghan citizens at risk, including women and girls, journalists, activists, and civic leaders, he said. He expressed hope to welcome the second Qatari-Italian strategic dialogue in Doha in 2023, expressing confidence in the success of the dialogue in its second edition in Doha, like the first in Rome yesterday. In a related context, HE Sheikh Mohamed attended a luncheon banquet on the sidelines of the strategic dialogue with a number of government agencies, institutions, and Italian companies.(QNA)