(Communicated by the Foreign Minister’s Bureau)

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Avigdor Liberman met on Wednesday morning (4 July) with Italian Prime Minister Mario Monti. The two leaders discussed the ongoing strengthening of relations between Italy and Israel.

PM Monti thanked FM Liberman for Israel's donation to the victims of the earthquake that struck Italy in May and said that Israel's solidarity with the Italian people is very moving. FM Liberman thanked PM Monti for Italy's friendship and said that Israel would continue to deepen it in all areas. Upon the request of the Italian prime minister, Liberman gave a detailed review of developments in the Middle East and of Israel's positions regarding events in the region.

Last night (3 July) FM Liberman met with Italian Foreign Minister Giulio Terzi. The two ministers discussed strengthening the relations between the two countries and the preparations for the meeting of governments scheduled to take place in October in Israel. Liberman noted the trade peak between the countries that reached more than $4.4 billion in 2011. This is in addition to the aircraft deal worth about $2 billion, with additional potential for joint export to third states.

The two foreign ministers also discussed cooperation on Expo 2015, which is due to take place in Milano.

FM Liberman expressed appreciation for Italy's support of Israel at the EU and international fora and said that he very much appreciates Italy's stand on the issue of sanctions against Iran.