Speaking in an interview with MENA Monday, Quaroni touched upon Rome’s essential role in pushing toward the issuance of a joint declaration between Egypt and the EU meant to boost bilateral cooperation in the face of regional challenges.

He talked about the comprehensive strategic partnership between Egypt and the pan-European body, which secured finances worth 7.4 billion euros.

This partnership also aims to enhance political ties and support economic stability in Egypt, as well as meet its energy needs and upgrade human capital, Quaroni noted.

During her visit to Egypt, Italian premier Meloni signed 17 agreements, which constitute the first steps toward implementing the “Mattei Plan for Africa”, a “non-predatory” approach launched by Italy with the aim of fostering cooperation, the diplomat said.

The deals covered many sectors, including sustainable agriculture, financial support for small and medium-sized institutions, investments in infrastructure, vocational training and the integration of persons with disabilities into society, Quaroni explained.

About the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, the Italian ambassador said his country supports the two-state solution, which is the only viable way to achieve permanent peace and security for both sides.

Italian Prime Minister Meloni and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani have voiced Rome’s willingness, with the EU, to contribute to achieving that goal for a sustainable future in the region, the diplomat added.

Italy is committed to working with Egypt to alleviate the impact of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Quaroni said, citing an initiative, “ Food for Gaza”, launched by the Italian Foreign Ministry in cooperation with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Food Programme (WFP), and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies(IFRC), with the aim to deliver food aid to Gazans and guarantee food security in the besieged enclave.