First UAE visit for Italy's prime minister

"We hope a joint declaration that would shape the future of relations between the two countries would be signed," says Giorgio Starace, the Italian ambassador to the UAE.

ABU DHABI // The Italian prime minister, Mario Monti, will arrive in the UAE tonight on his first official visit to the country.

Mr Monti is coming to the Emirates to develop economic ties and meet the country's leadership to discuss bilateral issues.

"This trip is aimed at strengthening the relations between Italy and the UAE," said the Italian ambassador to the UAE, Giorgio Starace.

Mr Monti, an economist who was elected in November last year in the wake of a major Italian debt crisis, will be accompanied by his wife and a delegation including executives of the Italian Sovereign and Italian Strategic funds.

"Prime minister Monti will address the economic crisis issue in Europe and present investment opportunities to the economic and institutional leaders in the UAE," said Mr Starace.

Mr Monti will hold meetings with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.

"We hope a joint declaration that would shape the future of relations between the two countries for political, economic, cultural and military affairs would be signed," Mr Starace said.

The Italian premier will conduct a lecture hosted by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce tomorrow.

"Present will be the management of the top financial and economic groups in Dubai including the Al Habtoor Group CEO, Dubai World, Emirates Group and the Jumeirah Group," said Mr Starace.

Mr Monti will also give a lecture, at the Crown Prince's palace, to the top institutional organisations of Abu Dhabi, and meet with members of the Italian armed forces stationed at Al Bateen air force base before he departs.