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ROME (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Following the worsening of the Middle East crises, the Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, urgently convened and chaired a telephone conference of the G7 leaders this afternoon.
According to a statement issued by the Office of the Prime Minister, “the G7 reiterated its strong condemnation to the Iranian attack against Israel”.
“In a constantly evolving scenario, it was agreed to work jointly to promote the scaling down of tensions at a regional level, starting from the application of Resolution 2735 in Gaza and Resolution 1701 for the stabilization of the Israeli-Lebanese border. In expressing strong concern about the escalation of the last few hours, it was reiterated that a conflict on a regional scale is not in anyonès interest and that a diplomatic solution is still possible. The leaders agreed to keep in close contact”.

– Photo Ipa Agency –

(ITALPRESS).

ROME (ITALPRESS/MNA) – As part of his official visit to Kenya, the Minister of Business and Made in Italy, Adolfo Urso, visited the “Luigi Broglio” Space Centre in Malindi, in the Ngomeni peninsula. The visit of Minister Urso, responsible for space and aerospace policies, took place 60 years after the foundation of the centre, established in 1964 as part of the San Marco project and named after its founder, Professor Luigi Broglio, where the adventure for the Italian space initiatives began.?During his visit in Kenya, Minister Urso was accompanied by the president of the Italian Space Agency (ASI), Teodoro Valente, by General Franco Federici, military advisor to the Prime Minister and secretary of the Interministerial Committee for Space. He was also accompanied by a delegation from the main Italian companies in the aerospace sector (Avio, Leonardo, Telespazio) and by Confindustriàs delegate for Aerospace, Giorgio Marsiaj.
After visiting the ASI Space Centre in Malindi, Urso and the Minister of Defense of Kenya, Soipan Tuya, chaired a meeting of the Joint Council of Ministers. At the centre of the initiative, relaunched by Urso in 2023 after a long period of inactivity, is the future of the Malindi space centre, where 200 people are currently working in orbital control and data reception from satellites and vectors. This base, managed by the Italian Space Agency, and the International Training School in space disciplines, could become the fulcrum, as part of the Mattei Plan promoted by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, in space cooperation extended to the countries in the Horn of Africa and East Africa.?”Over 60 years ago, Italy’s space adventure began in Malindi. Today we wish to give a new mission to this base, which could become the training place for space operators from African countries who have just established their continental space agency”, declared Minister Urso. The African space agency will be based in Cairo, where Minister Urso has already visited to lay the foundations for future collaboration with Italy. The Italian Space Agency “could also train the first Kenyan, and therefore African, astronaut in history, with the same methods and techniques with which Italian astronauts are trained today” added Urso.
“Earth observation from space, a sector in which Italy is a leader, offers further opportunities for cooperation with Africa for the management of natural resources, the promotion of sustainable agriculture and the fight against climate change, he continued. Urso added, “Artificial intelligence and space highlight how innovative the Mattei Plan is, capable of laying the foundations for the development of Africa, a path in which Italy will be able to take on a leading role”.
During the visit to the space centre, Minister Adolfo Urso, together with the Minister of Defense of Kenya, Soipan Tuya, and the president of ASI, Teodoro Valente, inaugurated the “Luigi Broglio Space Museum”. The museum recounts the story of this first equatorial maritime launch base in the world, from which a total of 9 satellite launches were carried out, starting with the Italian satellite “San Marco 2” on 26 April 1967, and around 20 orbital launches.

– Photo MIMIT press office –

(ITALPRESS).

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) (ITALPRESS) – A total of 25 Maltese nationals, including 9 members of the Armed Forces of Malta who are deployed in the country as part of United Nations peacekeeping mission, has remained in Lebanon. Meanwhile, two Maltese nationals have left the country and arrived in Malta.
Fr Michael Zammit, the Jesuit Provincial for the Near-East and Maghreb Province is among at least another 16 Maltese passport owners who are known to currently be in Lebanon, in addition to Maltàs peacekeeping forces.
The Maltese peacekeepers in Lebanon are based in Camp Shamrock, an Irish camp base located about seven kilometres from the Israeli border. Despite the escalating violence and the proximity of danger, none of the Maltese soldiers have requested to return home.
Furthermore, no Maltese nationals living in Lebanon had asked the Maltese Foreign Ministry for assistance. The present Travel Advisory for Lebanon issued by the Ministry is that of ‘Avoiding All Travel’. The Travel Advisory implies that Maltese nationals currently in Lebanon should consciously consider leaving the territory on available commercial flights. However, Maltese nationals permanently residing in Lebanon, are less likely to leave the country unless their area is affected by active hostilities. The Maltese Foreign Ministry is following all developments in the region and will be issuing directives as necessary, while remains available to provide any assistance to Maltese nationals abroad.
Over the past two weeks the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has broadened to Lebanon causing civilians to flee from their homes. More than one million people are believed to have been displaced so far, with Israeli airstrikes hitting all parts of Lebanon, including the capital Beirut.
(ITALPRESS).

– Foto: Ipa Agency –
(ITALPRESS).

TUNISI (ITALPRESS/MNA) – According to local reports, a migrant boat capsized killing 12 people, including three infants near Djerba, Tunisia. The boat was carrying 57 asylum seekers and sank as they sought to cross the Mediterranean to Europe.
According to the Tunisian Human Rights Monitor director Mostafa Abdelkebir, the boat carried 57 illegal migrants, which took off from Ras el Rmal in Djerba heading towards Europe through the Mediterranean Sea.
Abdelkebir added that 32 people have been rescued, most of them were men. Meanwhile, 10 people remain missing as rescue operations continue. Most of the migrants were Tunisian nationals except for two, who are believed to be Moroccan.

– Foto: Agenzia Fotogramma –

(ITALPRESS).

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Libya is set to resume oil production and exports on Monday, following the approval of a key agreement by the Libyan House of Representatives concerning the appointing new leadership for the Central Bank of Libya. Abdulhadi Al-Saghir, the Housès representative in negotiations over the Central Bank, confirmed that once the agreement is ratified, oil fields will reopen and production will resume immediately. This marks the end of a period of shutdowns that had disrupted Libyàs vital oil sector. In an interview with “Erem News Business”, Al-Saghir revealed that the agreement consists of seven provisions, all of which are expected to be endorsed by the House with a majority vote in its session in Benghazi. Once the Central Bank governor and his deputy are installed and begin their duties without any obstacles, Libyàs oil production and exports will proceed as planned. Al-Saghir’s comments align with those of Stephanie Khoury, the head of the United Nations Mission in Libya. Both emphasised the urgent need to lift the closures of oil fields, which have significantly hindered the country’s oil production and exports. They stressed the importance of channelling oil revenues through the appropriate institutional frameworks, specifically the Central Bank of Libya.
The reopening of oil fields is expected to boost Libyàs economy and bring much-needed stability to its financial system, especially after the prolonged political divisions that have plagued the country. Arab and Western nations have expressed support for progress facilitated by the United Nations mission in Libya, leading to a compromise between Libyan factions on appointing new leadership for the Central Bank of Libya. In a joint statement from the governments of the United States and Italy, senior officials from Algeria, Egypt, France, Germany, Morocco, Qatar, Turkey, and the United Kingdom also participated in talks, which took place on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

– Photo Agenzia Fotogramma –

(ITALPRESS).

VALLETTA (ITALPRESS/MNA) – While addressing the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, the Maltese Prime Minister emphasized, “Europe can only be secure and at peace if its neighbours are secure and at peace”.
“Malta has a unique political and geographical position. At the heart of the Mediterranean, a bridge between Europe and North Africa, and the crossroads of Europe and the Middle East. A full member of the EU, but with neutrality enshrined in our constitution. Two words sum-up the role I believe Malta can and does play. Honest broker”, he said.
Speaking on Maltàs term on the Security Council, the Maltese Premier referred to the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza. “We used our seat on the Security Council to work for Resolution 2712, which demanded urgent and extended humanitarian pauses and the provision of corridors through Gaza to supply critical supplies needed by so many civilians, not least children,” he said.
The resolution also called for the release of hostages held captive by Hamas and other militant groups in Gaza. “We are proud that this led to the release of 105 hostages during the negotiated seven-day pause.”
The Prime Minister said that the global community must ensure that war does not engulf the wider middle-east region.
“Furthermore, it is imperative that we, as a global community, do not lose focus on those other parts of the world where war and the killing of civilians is also all too present, and all too tragic, a daily reality. Sudan, Yemen, Syria and, of course, Ukraine”, he said.
Abela also spoke about the country’s southern neighbour Libya, saying Malta “can and must help”. However he added: “But for the process to truly succeed, it must be Libyan led and Libyan owned. To which end, we unequivocally call for the immediate withdrawal of all foreign forces, fighters and mercenaries from Libya. And Malta re-emphasises the need for a full impletion of the Libyan arms embargo in line with all the relevant Security Council resolutions”.
The Maltese PM said that peace and humanitarian budgets, which are at the heart of the UN’s mission, remain severely underfunded, harshly impacting too many of the world’s most vulnerable people.
The Maltese Premier referred to the need to address climate change as a global community. “Delay and prevarication simply aren’t options. Climate change must remain at the top of the global agenda,” Abela said.
He highlighted the importance of the ‘Islands for Islands’ initiative, saying it is central to Maltàs foreign policy. “As sea levels become an ever-greater concern so does the health of our seas and oceans become ever greater a priority. Malta remains, and will always remain, at the forefront of efforts to protect our oceans”.
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(ITALPRESS).

ROME (ITALPRESS) – The prestigious Italian Salerno Medical School (Schola Medica Salernitana) has recognised Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office (NMO), Chairman of the UAE Media Council and former Chairman of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, with the Schola Salernitana Lumen et Magister Award. Abdulla Ali Al Saboosi, the UAE Ambassador to the Italian Republic, attended the ceremony.
The recognition celebrates the UAE’s pioneering humanitarian efforts during the COVID-19 crisis and its commitment to the values of human solidarity and international cooperation. The UAE provided medical and logistical aid to countries affected by the pandemic, demonstrating its reliability as a global partner in addressing global crises.
The awards ceremony, held under the patronage of the President of Italy, Sergio Mattarella, took place for the first time at the Italian Chamber of Deputies in Rome.
Other honourees included Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi, Director-General of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA); Syed Basar Shueb, CEO and Managing Director of International Holding Company (IHC); and Peng Xiao, CEO of G42 Group.
On this spectacular occasion, Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed delivered a speech at the ceremony, in which he conveyed the greetings of the people of the UAE, led by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
He said, ‘The one who truly deserves this award and recognition is the fervent and key supporter of us all, the one who removes obstacles, fulfills the impossible, and follows up on every detail, no matter how meticulous, and every problem, no matter how tremendous: His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’.
He also paid tribute to the heroes of the frontline, saying, “I must not forget the unsung heroes of the frontline, as well as the volunteers who set an inspiring example of dedication and hard and diligent work to save patients’ lives in the most difficult circumstances, embodying the highest meanings of sacrifice and giving. They are most deserving of appreciation and gratitude’.
Sheikh Abdulla affirmed that his recognition by the Salerno Medical School, the oldest medical university in Europe, is in essence, a tribute to the UAE’s contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic and to the sacrifices of the Emirati people.
He noted that the award symbolises the values of understanding, international cooperation, peaceful coexistence, and the promotion of dialogue between religions and communities to promote a culture of construction and peace — values that the UAE sincerely advocates and champions.
He indicated that what has been achieved in the UAE is a miracle by all standards, as all competent entities for combating the pandemic followed the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, who underscored the equality in treating victims of the pandemic. His Highness considered all residents in the UAE were under his personal generous care.
Sheikh Abdulla highlighted that His Highness’s famous saying, ‘Do not worry,’ formed the key foundation of success in facing and overcoming the challenges of the pandemic.
Sheikh Abdulla explained that the UAE, where the word ‘impossible’ is void, succeeded remarkably in challenging the pandemic thanks to the solidarity and sacrifices of its people, and the collaborative, one-team spirit, supported by knowledge, planning, courage, and willpower.
He pointed out that the biggest challenge faced by the medical team was the presence of more than 200 nationalities in the UAE with different cultural backgrounds, but their trust in the UAE facilitated their guidance and awareness and made them understand all the measures taken to combat the pandemic.
He added that the UAE, rightly regarded as the humanitarian capital of the world, played a leading role in humanitarian efforts, providing over 80 percent of the international response to affected countries during the pandemic.
The Chairman of the National Media Office stated that the award is a medal for all the unknown and known heroes in the UAE and around the world who did not spare time, effort, or life in confronting the pandemic.
He commended the UAE’s effective global contribution in combating the pandemic, affirming that the humanitarian spirit and initiative to help those in need and affected worldwide form a strategic approach in the policies of the UAE, a country of love, goodness, and giving.
In conclusion, Sheikh Abdulla extended his thanks and greetings to the President of Italy for his patronage of the ceremony. He also paid tribute to the Salerno Medical School, which boasts over a thousand years of wisdom and excellence in the medical field, and for its noble initiative to honour the UAE in recognition of its global efforts in combating COVID-19.
He expressed his hope for increased cooperation between the UAE and the Italian prestigious school in the fields of scientific research and innovation in medicine, which would contribute to enhancing capabilities to face future health challenges and achieving further accomplishments that benefit humanity at large.
Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi, Director-General of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), emphasised that the UAE has set an example of how to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic and minimise its risks, thanks to the directives of its wise leadership, which gave the highest priority to the safety of the entire population (citizens and residents). They ordered the provision of everything to preserve people’s health and lives, and the UAE was one of the first countries to provide vaccines and was one of the first and fastest to recover from the pandemic.
Syed Basar Shueb, CEO & Managing Director of International Holding Company (IHC), said, “I am honoured to receive this prestigious recognition from the Almo College of the Salerno Medical School. This award is a testament to the UAE’s commitment to advancing scientific research and fostering global collaboration. It is through partnerships like this, bridging cultures and expertise, that we continue to push the boundaries of medical innovation, paving the way for a healthier future for all.”
Dr. Abdallah Raweh, Honorary President of the Salerno Medical School and Vice Rector of Ludes University, Switzerland and MD, PhD, Consultant Cardiac Surgeon UK, emphasised that the spirit of charity, giving, and sacrifice, is the fine thread connecting the UAE, the world’s capital of humanity and a major contributor to international initiatives, with Salerno Medical School, the oldest medical university in Europe.
He also explained that holding the ‘Italian-Emirati Scientific Day’ at this prestigious institution is a recognition of the appreciation for Arab contributions in the fields of medicine, science, and charitable work, as represented by the UAE, which extends a helping hand in all humanitarian missions to assist the afflicted and alleviate the suffering of victims and those in need.
He also pointed out that the honouring of Abdulla Al Hamed, NMO Chairman and other prominent figures from the UAE by the esteemed Salerno School reflects the high regard the UAE enjoys due to its cross-border humanitarian initiatives and tireless work to foster and develop cooperation among nations.
The Salerno Medical School also organised the ‘Italian-Emirati Scientific Day’ at the historic Vicolo Valdina complex, as part of the international events of the Salerno Medical School. This day reflects Italy’s appreciation of the UAE’s efforts in supporting scientific research collaboration and its unwavering commitment to developing an advanced scientific and research environment that promotes sustainable development and innovation.
The event also featured a conference on Arab influence on the life of the Salerno Medical School, where several senior school members from the prestigious university and other global institutions spoke about the contributions of Arab scholars to the advancement of medicine and medical sciences throughout history.
After the conference, a documentary titled ‘Schola Salernitana Lumen et Magister Award: 25 Years of History and Culture’ was screened.
The event ended with an official reception for the honourees attended by the school president, members of the Italian Parliament, leading scientists, researchers, and international media.
A press conference was held to discuss the significant efforts made by the UAE during the pandemic and the remarkable achievements of the honourees in their respective roles at the time.
The UAE has not only battled the virus at home but also led global humanitarian efforts, contributing 80% of international aid during the pandemic. It provided equipment to 135 countries, sent aid to 117 nations from the International Humanitarian City in Dubai, and built six field hospitals. Additionally, the UAE donated $10 million to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) allocated $10 billion to help developing countries recover from the pandemic-induced recession and delayed debt repayments for nations benefiting from its loans in 2020.
The UAE became the first country to conduct more COVID-19 tests than its population, surpassing 10 million tests.

– photo WAM –
(ITALPRESS).

ROME (ITALY) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The meeting reserved for the companies associated with Confindustria Assafrica & Mediterraneo on the Mattei Plan took place at the Confindustria headquarters. The delegates of the associated companies were able to explore the opportunities that arise from the implementation of the Strategic Plan for Africa and present their investment projects in the Continent. The initiative was attended by Antonio Gozzi, special advisor for European Strategic Autonomy, the Mattei Plan and Competitiveness of Confindustria, Fabrizio Saggio, diplomatic advisor to the Prime Minister and coordinator of the Mission Structure of the Mattei Plan, Regina Corradini D’Arienzo, CEO of Simest, together with representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and Cassa Depositi e Prestiti. “The Association’s activities are fully part of the strategy of attention that the Government is dedicating to Africa”, underlined Massimo Dal Checco, president of Confindustria Assafrica & Mediterraneo. “The Mattei Plan, in a long-term strategic vision, contributes to strengthening coordination between public and private actors operating on the Continent”, he added. “For Italian companies, institutional support, the support of the diplomatic network and financial instruments, such as those offered by Simest and Cdp and Sace are essential to operate in these markets. The presence today of the Mattei Plan Mission Structure is a sign of involvement of the private sector and attention to the contribution that excellent Italian companies can provide in the implementation of growth projects on the Continent and in the strengthening of stable and mutually beneficial industrial partnerships with African countries”, concluded Dal Chcecco. For Simest CEO Regina Corradini d’Arienzo, “Africa has assumed a central role for the competitiveness and growth of Italian companies. Among the many positive indicators recorded on the Continent, I recall the high percentage of young people, the abundant presence of strategic raw materials, the vast availability of arable land and the significant volumes of annual infrastructure investments. Through the Africa Measure, Simest – under the direction of the Farnesina – is committed, within the Mattei Plan, to supporting Italian companies in seizing the growth opportunities coming from the Continent. The Measure was developed following a constructive dialogue with trade associations and entrepreneurs, and allows us to support, among other things, not only Italian exporters to Africa, but also importers of strategic raw materials and above all those who do not yet operate in Africa. In fact, we intend to finance all those companies in the Italian supply chains, many of which are SMEs, that are not yet exporters, so that they can strengthen their competitiveness in international markets, and specifically in Africa, finding new outlets for the excellence of Made in Italy. Added to this is the possibility of also financing the training costs of young Africans to be employed on the continent or in production sites in Italy, thus contributing to the resolution of the chronic shortage of manpower in certain professions, a need that has been forcefully expressed to us by companies in many sectors”, he concluded.
(ITALPRESS).
-Photo credit: Confindustria Assafrica & Mediterraneo press office-