Emir of Qatar concludes visit to Italy

The Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa al-Thani on Thursday concluded his visit to Italy after he had held a press conference with Italian Prime Minister Massimo D'Alema during which backing was given to the Middle East peace process.

The emir of Qatar stressed the identical views shared with Italy on the importance of "strengthening ties with neighborly Iran," under the new atmospheres felt under the leadership of Iranian President Muhammad Khatami.

The two sides debated the Iraqi file, and Sheikh Hamad in this regard hoped that the sanctions imposed on Iraq will be eliminated.

He also stressed the need to revitalize economic relations with Italy, saying that his country "is rich in gas, and therefore we want the Italian companies to invest in Qatar."

D'Alema expressed his country's interest in developing economic and trade relations and reciprocated investments with Doha.

The two sides also announced the setting up of a joint business council in order to help businessmen and investors in the two countries, to organize trade exhibitions and joint investment projects and technology transfer and training.