Rome, July 24, AZERTAC

A conference has been held in Rome to discuss the activities of Italy-Azerbaijan inter-parliamentary working group.

The conference heard lectures from member of the Italian Senate, head of the Italy-Azerbaijan interparliamentary friendship group Sergio Divina, Azerbaijani Ambassador Vagif Sadigov, President of Italian-Azerbaijani Trade Institute Manuela Traldi and photo journalist Francesco Neri, who promoted special reportages about Azerbaijan in the Italian media.

Senator Divina noted the importance of reciprocal visits. Divina described bilateral relations between the two countries as friendly and partnership ties, adding his country is determined to further deepen bilateral cooperation.

The Senator stressed the need for further cooperation towards the realization of TAP project. He said that the working group would increase its efforts towards developing relations between the two countries in political, economic, cultural, humanitarian, tourism and other fields in the coming years.

Hailing Azerbaijan as the most developed country in the South Caucasus region, Ambassador Sadigov gave detailed information about the country's history, domestic and foreign policy priorities, activities in international and regional organizations, energy policy and implementation of large-scaled projects. He touched upon the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh problem, underlining the negative impact of the conflict on the regional development.

Sadigov said relations between Azerbaijan and Italy reached the level of strategic partnership.

The diplomat also highlighted Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and President of Heydar Aliyev Foundation, first lady Mehriban Aliyeva's working visit to Italy to attend the opening ceremony of Azerbaijani pavilion at Milan Expo 2015 International Exhibition, and the head of state's meetings with Italian President Sergio Mattarello and Prime Minister Matteo Renzi.

President of Italian-Azerbaijani Trade Institute Traldi praised relations between the two countries in political, economic, energy, cultural and other fields.

She stressed the importance of Azerbaijan as the main trade partner of Italy.

Highlighting the environment of high tolerance and intercultural relations in Azerbaijan, photojournalist Neri noted that representatives of all nationalities, religions enjoy equal rights and live in peace and friendship in the country. He noted that projects aimed at supporting ethnic groups, preserving and developing their languages are being implemented in Azerbaijan. “Azerbaijan's achievements in this field should be highly appreciated.” The photographer also demonstrated his photos taken during his visit to Azerbaijan.

The conference featured a promotional video about Azerbaijan.

Magsud Dadashov

Special Correspondent