An Italian delegation led by the country’s Foreign Minister, Arnaldo Forlani, arrived in Syria on Monday (14 March) for a three-day official visit. Italy has been increasing its trading connections with Syria over recent years and the delegation discussed increased economic cooperation between the two countries.
The Italian delegation were met at Syria’s Damascus Airport by Foreign Minister, Abdel Halim Khaddam. It was Mr. Khaddam who made the invitation to his Italian counterpart, Senor Forlani. The Italian Ambassador to Syria, Senor Maurizio Bucci, was also present for the welcoming. A statement was released by the Syrian Foreign Ministry stating that talks would concentrate on improving relations between Italy and Syria.
Senor Forlani and his delegation left immediately for discussions at the Foreign Ministry with Mr Khaddam. Syrian oil was believed to be high on the agenda together with further orders for Italian machinery. Italy received a major order from Syria at the end of 1975 for 500 buses.
Oil has played an important part in Syria’s economic development plans. Increased revenues from the exportation of oil have helped Syria to develop its agricultural and mineral industries.
Italy is supplying equipment to help build two new sugar refineries and hopes for further orders for machinery and technical expertise. Syria’s current five year development plan calls for the improvement in home industries, leading to a greater self-sufficiency.
