Giorgio Starace, the Italian Ambassador to UAE, has said that the UAE pavilion is one of the most distinctive, organised and attractive pavilions at Expo Milano 2015 in terms of image, design and message to the participants and visitors as well.

He stressed the importance of the UAE's participation at the world's major event to highlight the country's sustainable achievements and preparations to host Dubai 2020 Expo.

The envoy told Emirates News Agency, WAM, in an interview, that "The UAE's participation will further contribute to increasing a number of Italian tourists and those from other countries to visit the UAE," adding that those who had visited the UAE pavilion would seek to know more about the country by visiting it.

He noted that Expo Milano 2015, "Is an important platform to boost tourism in the UAE," adding that he has been observing the distinguished coverage of the Italian media on the distinctiveness of the UAE pavilion.

Starace described the relations between the UAE and Italy as "excellent in all fields", especially in the area of trade, citing that Italian exports to the UAE stood at 6 billion Euros in 2015. He added that 6,000 Italian companies are operating in the UAE, as well as a number of others in free trade zones.

The Italian ambassador to the UAE said the UAE is the top trading partner for Italy in the Arab world, and is a major market for Italian exports in the Middle East, adding that his country is keen to strengthen this economic partnership.

He added that last year, Etihad Airlines and Alitalia struck a partnership deal for 51 percent for Etihad Airways and 49 percent for Alitalia, noting that the deal will boost tourism in both countries.

Starace called on Italian investors to increase their investments in the UAE and benefit from the facilitations provided by the UAE to investors, adding that the UAE is the first Arab country whose citizens were exempted from Schengen Visa requirements.

The Italian ambassador hailed the UAE for hosting 200 nationalities, citing tolerance, safety and security as the main factors for co-existence in the country.

He added that the embassy helps students interested in studying in Italian Universities to choose their disciplines.
Source: WAM