By Mahdi Al-Nimr
ROME, Sept 20 (KUNA) -- The Italian capital mayor, Ignazio Marino, has lauded recent tour of Italy's historic sites by His Highness the Prime Minister of Kuwait Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah as a signal of his country's interest in the nation humanitarian and civil heritage.
Marino, in a statement to KUNA, commenting on his meeting with His Highness the Premier during his recent visit at his headquarters in Rome, said His Highness Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad's visit signaled particular significance, considering that he was accompanied by senior officials of the Kuwaiti Government.
Talks during the recent meeting dealt with Rome's history, namely its unique treasures and relics, documented as part of the international humanitarian heritage, Marino told KUNA, adding that he shared His Highness his special interest in the ancient Italian heritage, affirming importance of cultural exchanges between the Kuwaiti and Italian peoples -- both celebrating this year 50th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations.
Marino, a member of the Italian Democratic Party, expressed deep satisfaction at Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak's remarks, made during his recent visit, that the huge and unique Italian antiquities should be classified as part of the civil heritage for all mankind, also noting that "responsibility of maintaining this heritage should be shared by Italy with other countries of the world." The mayor, particularly, expressed interest in the Premier's remarks, signaling intention to organize an exhibition by the Kuwaiti "Dar Al-Athar Al-Islamiya," to display its distinctive and priceless relics in Italy. He expressed, in this respect, readiness to host such a Kuwaiti fair at one of Rome's internationally-renowned galleries.
Elaborating, the mayor said he indicated to His Highness the Premier during his visit readiness to display some of the Italian antiques in Kuwait, adding such ideas would be followed up with the Kuwaiti diplomatic mission in Italy. He added that he would invite the Kuwaiti minister in charge of cultural affairs to visit the European country to discuss means of enhancing cultural and educational cooperation, hoping Kuwaiti authorities would contribute to repairing and maintaining the Italian relics.
Marino had hosted His Highness the Prime Minister, along with his accompanying delegation at the Senatorial Palace, built in the 14th century. Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak had included his signature in the VIPs' visitors book at conclusion of his visit to Italy on September 16-17, during which he held talks with the president and the premier.
Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak and his delegation had proceeded to Germany on a mission for talks with top officials and participation in a celebration marking anniversary of Kuwait's investment in the major company, Daimler. (end) mn.tm.rk