ROME: Saqr Ghobash, the Speaker of the Federal National Council (FNC), engaged in talks with Lorenzo Fontana, President of Italy's Chamber of Deputies, during an official visit to Italy. The meeting took place at the Chamber's headquarters and focused on reinforcing the longstanding bilateral ties between the United Arab Emirates and Italy. According to Emirates News Agency, both leaders emphasized the significance of the relationship between their nations, which has been built on mutual respect and shared national interests since 1972. The discussions highlighted the alignment of both countries' perspectives on current regional and global issues, as well as their commitment to promoting international security and stability. At the beginning of the session, President Fontana expressed his welcome to Ghobash and his delegation, noting the importance of the visit. He expressed hope that the discussions would lead to enhanced cooperation and coordination across various fields, benefiting both nations and their citizens. Speaker Ghobash highlighted the necessity of strengthening bilateral relations not only at the official level but also among the general public, especially in the face of global changes. He also emphasized the role of parliamentary diplomacy in advancing mutual interests and initiatives between the two countries. Ghobash acknowledged that the UAE is Italy's primary trading partner in the Middle East and North Africa region, underscoring the economic ties that bind the two nations. Furthermore, Ghobash praised the Italian government's recent decision to permit UAE citizens to use electronic gates for entry and exit at all Italian airports, a move that signifies the depth of the bilateral relationship.