Mubarak, Ciampi discuss efforts for establishing peace, boosting bilateral relations

Italian President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi arrived in Cairo on a three-day official visit to Egypt. He held a session of talks immediately upon arrival with President Mubarak.

The talks tackled bilateral relations and a number of regional and international issues. The talks also touched on efforts exerted by Egypt for eliminating the obstacles hindering the peace process, ways of bolstering European-Mediterranean cooperation within the framework of Barcelona in addition to a number of issues of common interest.

The two leaders discussed ways of developing friendly relations in the various domains.

Ciampi and his spouse are accompanied by a high-powered delegation, including Foreign Minister Lamberto Dini. The visit comes at the invitation of President Hosni Mubarak.

The Italian President was received by Petroleum Minister Sameh Fahmy and Italian Ambassador in Cairo Francesco Aloisi de Larderel.

Ciampi headed for the Presidential Palace at Heliopolis where a red-carpet reception was held in his honor.

President Mubarak and First Lady Suzanne Mubarak received the top Italian guest upon his arrival at the palace. Prime Minister Atef Ebeid was on hand to receive the guest together with an array of ministers.