Egypt keen on maintaining strong relations with Italy: governor

ALEXANDRIA, Egypt, July 15 (MENA) - Alexandria Governor Abdel Aziz Konsowa affirmed Egypt's keenness on maintaining strong relations with Italy.

The governor pointed out to the depth of historical and cultural relations binding the two countries.

He made the remarks during his meeting with the Cardinal of the Italian city of Agrigento, Francesco Montenegro, on the sidelines of his visit to the Italian, Rome, along with a number of cities in Sicily Island.

Egypt's Ambassador to Italy Hisham Badr was present at the meeting, according to a statement issued by Alexandria Governorate on Monday.

"Alexandria city embraces the Coptic Orthodox Church," governor Konsowa said, pointing out to progress achieved under the rule of President Abdel Fattah El Sisi in disseminating the cultures of citizenship, religious tolerance as well as acceptance.

He invited cardinal Montenegro of Agrigento and church members to pay a visit to Alexandria for talks on the measures of initiating the first Italian pilgrimage trip by Christian devotees from the island of Sicily to Egypt.

Cardinal Montenegro, for his part, highlighted the key role played by both Egypt and Italy in building communication bridges and reviving the old Mediterranean cultures.

The cardinal conveyed the greetings of Pope Francis to Egypt, its people and leadership, noting that the pontiff asserted - during their last meeting - the importance of preserving the profound friendship and ties with Egypt in a way that contributes to supporting the cultures of dialogue and coexistence.

Ambassador Badr, meanwhile, underlined the importance of the meetings held by the governor during his visit to Italy as well as the twin-ship agreement which was signed with Catania city.