Italian defence minister, Egypt strong partner, ally

Italian Defense Minister Roberta Pinotti said Egypt is a strong country of a rich human wealth of nearly 90 million citizens.

During a meeting with visiting Egyptian Prime Minister Ibrahim Mahlab on Friday, Pinotti said Italy appreciates Egyptian security efforts to counter terrorism as well cultural efforts in this regard.

She expressed her country’s gratitude for Egyptian sympathy shown following the terror attack against the Italian consulate in Cairo and thanked the government for its decision to restore the building.

She said Prime Minister Matteo Renzi’s participation in the Egypt Economic Development Conference in Sharm El Sheikh is a proof of Italy’s will to support Egypt economically and developmentally.

Italy is ready to share its expertise in fighting terrorism with its partner and ally, Egypt, she added.

For his part, Mahlab said Egypt is keen to continue coordination with Italy on issues related to rising fundamentalism in North Africa and the Middle East in light of the situation in Libya, Syria and Iraq.

The terror attack that targeted the Italian consulate on July 11 will only enhance Egypt’s determination to eradicate terrorism, Mahlab said.

Egypt offers proper security to foreign embassies in Cairo, he said, adding that a decision was taken to cover the expenses of restoring the consulate building.

He underlined the importance of coordination to fight the terrorist group of Daesh and other organizations in the region.

He pointed out to the important role of Al Azhar in countering extremist ideologies and misconceptions about Islam.

The phenomenon of illegal migration has to be treated from its roots, the Egyptian premier said.

Illegal migration is interrelated with organized crime, terrorism and the flow of arms and foreign fighters, he said.

He reiterated Egypt’s request to the European Union to stop the flow of arms and foreign fighters to Libya.

Meanwhile, the Italian chief of staff offered condolences to Egypt over the army victims targeted in recent terror attacks in Sinai.