Mubarak Italian visit push bilateral ties

The Egyptian-Italian relations are distinguished and growing, Presidential Political Advisor Osama A1 Baz said on Tuesday, adding that President Hosni Mubarak's current visit to Rome was meant to give them further momentum.

The next few months will witness the positive results of the visit, with Italian investments in Egypt enhanced and economic, political and cultural cooperation activated, Baz said.

In a telephone interview with Cairo Radio from Rome, Baz said everybody is feeling a remarkable enthusiasm from the Italian side to deepen bilateral ties, referring to a cultural gathering that would be held in Italy in 2003 under the rubric "Egypt in Italy".

The timing of Mubarak's visit to Italy gives it a special importance as it comes amid crucial developments in the Middle East, the president’s political advisor noted.

The visit is a good opportunity to exchange views with Italian officials whom Mubarak told Europe should play a greater role in the Middle East peace process, Baz said.

The Italians agree to our viewpoint, but they have to consult with their European partners before taking any decision, he maintained.

On Italy's attitude towards Israel's violent practices against the Palestinians, Baz said the policies of the Jewish state are not accepted by any international side, not only Italy, because they violate the simplest of laws.