Mikati hails Italy's support to Lebanon

             
Minister Najib Mikati hailed Italy's support to Lebanon during his official visit to Rome where he held talks with senior Italian officials.                

Mikati, who was speaking to the Italian press at the conclusion of his visit, underlined the importance of the Lebanese-Italian ties on all levels and especially in the economic field.               

"We have conducted constructive talks with Italian officials with special emphasis on the Middle East and Lebanon. Italy is an important economic partner to Lebanon and has made a major contribution to the UNIFIL forces in the south and has presided over these forces for a second time," Mikati explained.              
He added that Italy played an important role in removing the land mines planted by the Israeli forces in the south.               

The prime minister also praised the role played by Italy in seeking peace and a just settlement to the Middle East conflict.                 

Earlier, Mikati met with Italy's Foreign Minister Giulio Terzi and reviewed bilateral ties in the presence of Lebanese and Italian officials.                

Terzi said after the meeting that both sides discussed the best ways to strengthen economic and trade ties and to hold an economic forum in Milano.                    

The minister added that Italy has major companies operating in Lebanon.                 

Terzie said that Italy deeply appreciates the Lebanese government's policy of disassociation especially in terms of the current Syrian conflict.                    

He also heaped praise on the Lebanese Cabinet for providing humanitarian assistance to the Syrian refugees.                      

Talks also focused on the situation in the Gaza Strip and prevailing tension between the Palestinians and Israelis.                

"Italy believes that Lebanon should stay away from the Syrian conflict and to preserve peace and stability in the country," the Italian minister said.                   

Mikati also met the Arab ambassadors in Rome and briefed them on the political and economic situation in Lebanon.