Tag: ITALY

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Indian-Italian navies engage in historic wargames

This was a historic engagement as it featured the maiden exercise by Carrier Strike Groups (CSG) from both navies…reports Asian Lite News

Indian and Italian Navy conduct Carrier Strike Groups Exercise off the West Coast of India.

In a post on the social media platform X, the Spokesperson for Indian Navy shared that the Indian Navy and Italian Navy held a historic bilateral maritime engagement which started on October 1 and concluded on October 6.

This was a historic engagement as it featured the maiden exercise by Carrier Strike Groups (CSG) from both navies. A CSG is a flexible naval force which can do operations in both confined waters or the open ocean, in all weather conditions and during all times of the day, thereby making it important for the navies.

The harbour phase of the engagement saw subject matter expert exchanges and other key professional interactions. The program also saw a Pre-Sail Planning Conference that included the participation of the Indian Air Force.

The sea phase of the engagement was on October 5 and 6 and led by the two carriers INS Vikramaditya and ITS Cavour along with INS Visakhapatnam and ITS Alpino.

The two CSGs held intense operations with their integral fighter aircraft and helicopters for various operations such as combined large force engagements, air combat missions, Helo operations and search and rescue missions. The engagements also involved co-ordinated weapon firings and joint manoeuvres so as to underscore joint operations and Command and Control capabilities of the two navies and enhance their interoperability.

In the post on X, it was noted that “a key facet of the landmark exercise was the participation of the Indian Air Force that undertook manoeuvres with Italian CSG aircraft including Large Force Engagements & Combat Missions.”

The event was noted to have the interactions under the title, ‘Bridges of Friendship’. India and Italy are friendly countries that share relations across all spectrums from defence to cultural relations. (ANI)

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Italian police free 33 Indian farm workers from ‘slavery’

The police further said the abusers were charged with crimes connected to slavery and labour exploitation, and the victims would be offered protection, work opportunities, and legal residency papers…reports Asian Lite News

Police in Italy said on Saturday that they freed 33 Indian farm labourers from slave-like working conditions in the northern Verona province, news agency Reuters reported. The police also said that they seized $545,300 (around €500,000) from the alleged abusers of these labourers.

The abusers, who are also from India, brought fellow nationals to Italy on seasonal work permits, asking them to pay 17,000 euros each and promising them a better future, the police added, while describing the migrants’ treatment as “slavery”.

The migrants were given farm jobs, working seven days a week and 10-12 hours a day for just $4.37 per hour, which was entirely docked from them until they settled all their debts. Some were asked to continue working for free to pay an additional $14,197 for a permanent work permit “which, in reality, would have never been given to them.”

The police further said the abusers were charged with crimes connected to slavery and labour exploitation, and the victims would be offered protection, work opportunities, and legal residency papers.

Italy, like other countries in Europe, faces growing labour shortages that are often filled via immigration, particularly in lower-paid jobs. The country has a migrant work visa system that has faced cases of fraud.

The incident comes days after an Indian fruit picker died after his arm was severed by machinery in June. Police arrested farm owner Antonello Lovato on suspicion of homicide of Satnam Singh. Lovato, driving the tractor at the time, allegedly abandoned Singh after the accident, refusing entreaties to call an ambulance.

In a similar incident last month, four members of the affluent Hinduja family were sentenced by a Swiss criminal court to prison terms ranging from four to 4.5 years for exploiting vulnerable domestic workers. The family members were accused of confiscating workers’ passports, paying them in Indian rupees rather than Swiss francs, restricting their movement, and forcing them to work excessively long hours for minimal pay in Switzerland.

Geneva prosecutors had launched the probe over alleged illegal activities, including exploitation, human trafficking, and violations of Swiss labor laws.

ALSO READ-Modi Holds Key Bilateral Talks with Italy, Japan at G7

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Modi Presents India’s Views At G7

Modi at G7

PM Modi also thanked the people and government of Italy “for their warm hospitality”.

After attending the G7 meeting and holding multiple bilaterals during his day-long visit to Italy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday returned to Delhi. The PM said that he had a productive day after interacting with world leaders.

He posted on X, “Had a very productive day at the G7 Summit in Apulia. Interacted with world leaders and discussed various subjects.

“Together, we aim to create impactful solutions that benefit the global community and create a better world for future generations.”

PM Modi also thanked the people and government of Italy “for their warm hospitality”.

The Prime Minister also said, “An important G7 Summit, where I presented India’s perspective at the world stage.

Here are highlights,” and posted a video link to the important event. He held back-to-back bilaterals with French President Emmanuel Macron, British PM Rishi Sunak, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Japanese PM Fumio Kishida.

He then attended the G7 Outreach Session on AI and Energy, Africa and the Mediterranean which was followed by interactions with several world leaders.

After the conclusion of the G7 Summit’s Outreach Session, PM Modi met with several world leaders, including US President Joe Biden.

He also interacted with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Jordan King Abdullah, and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Pope Francis on Friday on the sidelines of the G7 summit and invited him to visit India.

The visit to Italy was Prime Minister Modi’s first overseas trip after assuming office for the third consecutive term, and also his fifth consecutive participation in the G7 Summit.

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-Top News Arab News UAE News

UAE, Italy vow to boost partnership

The two top diplomats discussed the friendship relations between the two countries and the potential for developing cooperation in consolidation of their strategic partnership in several fields…reports Asian Lite News

H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs, has met with Antonio Tajani, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Italian Republic, as part of his Woking visit to Rome.

The two top diplomats discussed the friendship relations between the two countries and the potential for developing cooperation in consolidation of their strategic partnership in several fields, including the economic, commercial, investment, developmental, and energy sectors.

H.H. Sheikh Abdullah stressed the depth of relations between the two countries and their growth and development prospects, noting that the United Arab Emirates and the friendly Italian Republic share a common desire and will to strengthen their partnership and invest in all available resources to push the paths of cooperation towards broader horizons that support their plans to achieve comprehensive and sustainable development.

They also discussed the current developments in the region and the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, stressing on the importance of the recent UN Security Council Resolution No. 2728, which calls for a ceasefire and an immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.

Sheikh Abdullah affirmed the UAE’s keenness to work with Italy and all friendly countries to end extremism, tension, and violence in the region. He pointed to the importance of concerted international efforts to protect the security and safety of all civilians and provide adequate humanitarian support to the Palestinian people to alleviate their suffering.

The meeting was attended by Saeed Mubarak Al Hajeri, Assistant Minister for Economic and Trade Affairs, and Abdulla Ali Al Saboosi, the UAE Ambassador to the Italian Republic.

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-Top News EU News Europe

Italy warns against Western troops in Ukraine  

Antonio Tajani added that it “would be a mistake” for NATO to send troops to Ukraine…reports Asian Lite News

Antonio Tajani, Italian Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, on Saturday rejected the idea raised by French President Emmanuel Macron of the possibility of sending Western troops to Ukraine, said Tajani as quoted by media reports.

He added that it “would be a mistake” for NATO to send troops to Ukraine, which “we must help defend, ” as quoted by Ukrainska Pravda report.

“To enter the war with Russia means the threat of World War III,” he said.

“Our military is doing well what they are doing in the Red Sea to protect our ships; they are doing well what they are doing in Lebanon, Africa and Iraq. Our military are the bearers of peace, guarantees and freedom. We are not at war with Russia,” the Italian Foreign Minister stressed.

Earlier on Friday, Macron, while commenting on the idea of sending Western troops to Ukraine, said that if such a scenario were to be implemented, French forces would not go on the offensive against Russia, the Ukrainska Pravda reported.

French politicians attacked Macron after his recent interview regarding his support for Ukraine.

Elina Valtonen, Finland Minister of Foreign Affairs, has said that Western countries, including the US, should not completely rule out the idea of sending troops to Ukraine if the situation there deteriorates.

ALSO READ: Russia threatens troop deployment along Finland border  

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-Top News Europe

Tunisia Bolsters Measures Against Illegal Immigration to Italy

Situated about 130 km from the Tunisian coastline, the island of Lampedusa is often chosen as the first stop for migrants making illegal sea voyages to Italy…reports Asian Lite News

 Tunisia in 2023 intercepted more than 75,000 illegal migrants while they were attempting to enter Europe via the Mediterranean Sea route to Italy, media reported.

It is more than double the number in 2022, during which more than 35,000 undocumented immigrants were arrested while sailing to Italy off Tunisian coasts, said the report on Wednesday, citing Tunisia’s National Guard spokesman Houcemeddine Jbabli.

Over the past several months, Tunisian security has intensified the crackdown upon waves of illegal immigration destined for the Italian island of Lampedusa, extending relevant operations from the southeastern province of Sfax to other provinces, Xinhua news agency reported.

Situated about 130 km from the Tunisian coastline, the island of Lampedusa is often chosen as the first stop for migrants making illegal sea voyages to Italy.

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Italian Elegance Meets Dubai Skyline

Soaring 96 meters above The Palm and spanning 90 meters in length, Cloud 22 features an endless infinity pool, floating beds, 11 luxury cabanas with private plunge pools as well as a two-storey VVIP cabana complete with its own floating infinity pool…reports Asian Lite News

The epicenter and spiritual core of Atlantis The Royal, Cloud 22 is an iconic sky pool with sweeping views over The Palm Islands, the Arabian Sea and Dubai’s captivating skyline. In collaboration with Ounass, Dolce&Gabbana presents an Italian-inspired experience at Cloud 22, that evokes a story of love and hospitality, of devotion to beauty, and the art of living the everyday life.

Dolce&Gabbana employs its iconic blue majolica print to adorn Cloud 22, seamlessly weaving the fashion house’s creativity into the venue’s inherent sophistication. Guests are assured of an extraordinary encounter, where Dolce&Gabbana’s renowned fashion elements blend with Cloud 22’s elegant ambience.

Meticulously crafted furnishings, embellished with the iconic blue maiolica print, and the incorporation of natural materials will contribute to an ambience that is not only luxurious but also irresistibly inviting.

With lively music and a sophisticated ambiance, guests can indulge in a special Dolce&Gabbana menu featuring a handpicked selection of dishes including bruschetta with Oscietra caviar, Gillardeau oysters drizzled with Amalfi lemon and balsamico sauce, and steak tartare perfected with truffle.

Soaring 96 meters above The Palm and spanning 90 meters in length, Cloud 22 features an endless infinity pool, floating beds, 11 luxury cabanas with private plunge pools as well as a two-storey VVIP cabana complete with its own floating infinity pool.

Visitors can also immerse themselves in the world of Ounass at a pop-up store located on the Galleria Level of Atlantis The Royal, where guests can not only discover exceptional pieces from the Dolce&Gabbana collections – including iconic prints such as Blue Majolica and Psychedelic Cart, together with the Crystal Mesh Collection – but also live Ounass’ unrivalled shopping experience.

This exclusive journey at Ounass and Dolce&Gabbana at Cloud 22 starts from AED 450 per person and welcomes guests from 10:00am to 7:00pm daily. 21+. To find out more or to make a reservation log onto www.atlantis.com/dubai/dining/cloud22 or call +04 462700.

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-Top News Europe

Italy Extends Strong Backing for Ukraine Amid Russia Conflict

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni (C) addresses the lower house of Italy's parliament in Rome, Italy, on Oct. 25, 2022. (Photo by Alberto Lingria/Xinhua/IANS)

A few hours later, the Senate recorded 103 votes in favour, 24 against and 27 abstentions…reports Asian Lite News

Italy’s Parliament has approved a resolution reaffirming the country’s support for Ukraine for another year in that country’s conflict with Russia.

Both Houses of the Italian Parliament on Wednesday supported the resolution, with the Lower House casting 195 votes in favour, 50 against and 55 abstentions. A few hours later, the Senate recorded 103 votes in favour, 24 against and 27 abstentions.

In a change to previous resolutions of support in Italy, the vote also called for the Italian government to support “all diplomatic efforts” to negotiate an end to the conflict as long as those efforts lead to a “lasting” and “balanced” peace, Xinhua news agency reported.

Italy is among the countries sending military equipment to Ukraine since the start of the conflict. Public support for aid to Ukraine from European Union member states has eroded in recent months.

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-Top News Europe India News

India govt gives nod to migration, mobility pact with Italy  

Tourists visit the Colosseum in Rome, Italy, on June 28, 2021. (Xinhua/Cheng Tingting/IANS)

Cooperation between the two parties in the fight against irregular migration has also been formalised through the Agreement...reports Asian Lite News

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given its ex-post facto approval to the proposal of the Ministry of External Affairs to sign and ratify the Migration and Mobility Agreement between India and Italy, the Cabinet informed in a release on Wednesday.

The agreement would enhance people-to-people contacts, foster mobility of students, skilled workers, business people and young professionals and strengthen cooperation on issues related to irregular migration between the two sides. The agreement locks in the current Italian visa regime including mechanisms for post-study opportunities, internships, and professional training assuring an advantage for India under the existing labour mobility pathways under the Flows Decree. According to the release, after this agreement, the Indian students wishing to gather initial professional experience, after completing academic or vocational training in Italy may be granted temporary residence in Italy for up to 12 months.

The Italian side has detailed provisions related to professional training, extracurricular internships and curricular internships which allow Indian students and trainees to gain experience in Italian skills and training standards. For workers, the Italian side has reserved a quota of 5000, 6000 and 7000 non-seasonal Indian workers for 2023, 2024 and 2025 under the current Flows Decree (Total reserved quota stands at 12000 for non-seasonal workers). Additionally, the Italian side has also reserved a quota of 3000, 4000 and 5000 seasonal Indian workers for 2023, 2024 and 2025 under the current Flows Decree (Total reserved quota stands at 8000 for seasonal workers), the release added. Under the Flows Decree, the Italian side has also offered incremental reserved quotas for both seasonal and non-seasonal workers from 2023-2025. Additionally, the Agreement also formalises joint working on furthering mobility pathways between India and Italy through agreements on Youth Mobility and Facilitation of Recruitment of Indian qualified professionals in the healthcare and medical services sectors which will be discussed under the Joint Working Group (JWG).

Cooperation between the two parties in the fight against irregular migration has also been formalised through the Agreement. “This agreement will come into effect on the first day of the second month following the date of receipt of the last of the two notifications by which parties shall have communicated to each other the completion of their internal procedures necessary for its entry into force and will remain into force for a period of 5 years. Unless terminated by any participant, the agreement will be automatically renewed for a similar successive period,” the release stated. The agreement provides a formal mechanism for its monitoring through a JWG which would meet periodically, in virtual or physical mode as convenient, and oversee its implementation. The JWG would share relevant information, evaluate the implementation of the agreement and discuss all appropriate proposals to support implementation as necessary. Notably, the agreement was signed on November 2 this year, by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on the Indian side and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani on the Italian side, the cabinet release added. (ANI)

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Italy formally exits China’s BRI

The withdrawal was initially reported by the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, which stated that Beijing was informed of the much-awaited decision three days ago…reports Asian Lite News

Italy has taken an exit from China’s Belt and Road Initiative, four years after becoming the only Group of Seven (G7) nation to sign up for it.

The withdrawal was initially reported by the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, which stated that Beijing was informed of the much-awaited decision three days ago. Italy was the first significant Western country to join the project in 2019, despite US worries about China acquiring control over vital infrastructure and technologies.According to an auto-translation of the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, the formal exit of Rome from the project occurred through the cancellation of the agreement by the Italian government.

China’s Belt and Road.

In the end, after weeks of confidential negotiations and some diplomatic misunderstandings, Italy produced a verbal note, accompanied it with promises of strategic friendship capable of relaunching relations between the two states, and delivered it in Beijing to the Chinese government authorities, the Italian publication Corriere della Sera reported.It is advantageous for both that there was little public announcement of the official cancellation (none of the two countries released a statement).

Beijing is in charge of a project that has partially fallen into financial difficulties.The Silk Road Memorandum was notably signed by then-Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte of Italy and Chinese President Xi Jinping on March 23, 2019, according to Corriere della Sera.

Notably, it was upon taking office last year, that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated her intention to pull out of the BRI, citing the absence of significant advantages for her country, Al Jazeera reported.It was earlier in September this year that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni had said that leaving the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) also known as Silk Road does not compromise relations with China.

According to Italian media, Corriere della Sera daily, it was on the sidelines of the G20 Summit here in Delhi this year, that the Italian PM met Chinese Premier Li Qiang and shared her plan to pull out of the BRI.In the press conference on the last day of the G20 Summit, Meloni turned to talk about the conversation she had with the head of the Chinese government.

“A cordial and constructive dialogue on how we can deepen our bilateral partnership… I intend to keep my commitment to visit China…It makes more sense to go to China when we have more information on our bilateral cooperation and how to develop it,” Meloni said at the conference, according to the Italian media report.”Leaving the Silk Road does not compromise relations, but the decision still has to be taken,” the prime minister assured.

“The Italian government was invited to the Belt and Road Forum, but yesterday we didn’t talk about it,” Meloni said at the conference. (ANI)

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