The Italian Ambassador to Nigeria, Stefano De Leo, said that the relationship between Nigeria and Italy is based on mutual respect and cooperation.
The envoy disclosed this during the 78th Italian National Day celebration, also known as the Festa della Repubblica, marking the abolishment of the monarch system and establishment of a republic in 1947.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports on Thursday that the celebration commenced a day earlier with an art exhibition of the Yoruba cultural heritage by a renowned Italian artist called Luigi Ballarin.
De Leo said that the day is significant for both Nigeria and Italy, and a symbol of friendship.
The envoy added that ‘this year marks the Italian G7 Presidency with the commitment to strengthen ties with Africa and Nigeria specifically.
‘The aim is to strengthen the bridge that makes us grow together through cooperation, development and equal partnership.
‘Italy offers a model of cooperation and development that bears the name of a great Italian, Enrico Mat
tel, the founder of ENI, known in Nigeria as Agip and NAOC, with a historic presence in Nigeria.
‘Over the years, we have witnessed the growth of cultural exchanges, trade partnerships, and investments between the two countries.
‘We have worked together and will continue to address common challenges such as terrorism, migration and climate change.
Source: News Agency of Nigeria