America News Agency

Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani announced that he met with Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasim AlBudaiwi and that they signed a Memorandum of Understanding reinforcing the comprehensive dialogue between the two sides.

Speaking about the future of the partnership and its key priorities, Tajani said: "The Gulf is a strategic partner for the security, economic growth and stability of the wider Mediterranean. We want to strengthen the partnership between Italy and the Gulf countries, promote strategic corridors such as IMEC, protect freedom of navigation and trade routes starting from the Strait of Hormuz, and support diplomatic initiatives capable of promoting peace, security and stability in the Middle East."

Tajani also emphasized measures to boost economic relations, stating: "Italy reaffirms its role as a privileged mediator between Europe and the Gulf. We will soon organize a business forum bringing together companies from our countries to create more growth and opportunities for our exporting businesses."