Prime Minister Sherif Ismail has stressed deep relations with Italy, noting that his government supports Italian investments and acts to remove obstacles facing the flow of business to the country.

In a meeting with Italian Ambassador in Cairo Maurizio Massari Tuesday, Ismail reviewed a number of cooperation projects between the two sides, atop of which comes ENI's gas discovery, said Cabinet spokesman Hossam al Qaweesh.

They also discussed future plans that will start this year, Qaweesh added.

Massari stressed his country's strong support for Egypt in all fields.

He pointed to the numerous investment opportunities in Egypt.

He told Ismail the Italian prime minister backs Egypt, especially in light of current regional challenges.

Massari appreciated the role played by Egypt to achieve balance in the region.

The diplomat said that Italian Minister of Economic Development Federica Guidi intends to visit Egypt in February. She will be leading a delegation of 25 heads of major Italian companies interested in doing business in Egypt, Massari added.

Preparations are ongoing for the visit and meetings in Cairo, the diplomat made it clear.

He said his country is willing to share its expertise with Egypt and provide funding and training to support the Small and Medium-size Enterprises (SMEs).

Source: MENA