Italian Senate President Ignazio La Russa stressed the urgent need for "a definitive and immediate end to the suffering and deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Gaza" during a meeting with Arab Parliament Speaker Adel Al-Asoumi in Rome on Friday.

Key Points from the Meeting:

1. Humanitarian Commitment:

   • La Russa confirmed Italy's ongoing aid deliveries to Gaza, referencing his firsthand observations of Palestinian suffering during visits to El-Arish city and the Rafah border crossing in Egypt.

   • He emphasized that regional security and stability serve the strategic interests of all nations.

2. Arab-Italian Relations:

   • Praised the Arab Parliament’s efforts in promoting women’s empowerment, security, and stability.

   • Highlighted cultural and historical ties between Arab and Italian peoples as a foundation for stronger bilateral relations.

3. Parliamentary Cooperation Proposal:

   • Al-Asoumi proposed a joint cooperation agreement between the Arab Parliament and the Italian Senate to institutionalize relations.

   • Invited La Russa to address the Arab Parliament in Cairo, an offer the Italian official welcomed, pledging to visit at the earliest opportunity.

Meeting Context:

• Held during the 2nd Parliamentary Conference on Interfaith Dialogue (June 19-21) in Rome, organized by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the Italian Parliament.

• Discussions also covered enhancing Arab-Italian parliamentary relations and shared regional concerns.

Statements:

• La Russa: "The understanding and closeness between the Arab and Italian peoples are fundamental pillars for strengthening relations in all fields."

• Al-Asoumi: "Italy is among the closest European nations to the Arab world—not just geographically, but through deep historical, cultural, and strategic ties."