Mahlab holds talks with Italian PM, president

Prime Minister Ibrahim Mahlab on Friday held two separate meetings with his Italian counterpart Matteo Renzi and President Sergio Mattarella to discuss developing bilateral ties in various fields.

During talks with Renzi, Mahlab reviewed cooperation with Italy in several fields and the latest developments regarding Egypt's major national projects, including the New Suez Canal and the Golden Triangle.

Mahlab also discussed opportunities available to increase Italian investments in Egypt and prospects of cooperation in the field of small and medium-sized enterprises, and technical and vocational training to enhance skills of Egyptian workers.

Mahlab stressed the importance of Renzi's participation in the inauguration of the New Suez Canal project, slated for August 6.

Mahlab and Renzi witnessed the signing of several deals in the field of petroleum and natural gas.

A declaration of intent has also been signed between the Egyptian and Italian governments to develop ways of cooperation between the two countries through supplying Egypt's small and medium-sized companies with training and technical assistance.

Mahlab arrived in Rome on Thursday coming from Milan as part of a three-day official visit to Italy at an invitation by his Italian counterpart.

Mahlab is accompanied by Egyptian Minister of Trade and Industry Mounir Fakhry Abdel Nour, Petroleum Minister Sherief Ismail and Egypt's ambassador to Italy.

Earlier in the day, Mahlab held a meeting with Italian Minister of Defense Roberta Pinotti to discuss promoting joint cooperation.