Italy wishes to take part in settlement of Syrian crisis

Italy has reiterated wishes to take part in the upcoming Geneva-2 international conference on Syria to find a peaceful solution for the civil war-torn country, while calling for getting Iran involved in the negotiation process. Italian Foreign Minister Emma Bonino said at the opening ceremony of the 10th Italian Ambassadors' Conference that "we want to be part of the solution. " Rome is expecting an invitation to the conference from the UN chief, which has yet to be announced. Bonino pointed out Italy's role in preventing a military strike on Syria when Washington threatens to do so, following an alleged chemical attack by Assad forces against the Syrian people. Italy also stressed the importance of getting Iran engaged in the settlement of the Syrian crisis.