ROME, Friday, May 8, 2026 (WNP): Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Antonio Tajani on Friday reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to diplomacy, transatlantic cooperation, and international stability during talks with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the Farnesina in Rome.

Tajani said Italy and the United States are linked by an “indissoluble bond,” strengthened further by the Italian-American community and longstanding strategic cooperation between the two countries.

He said both sides confirmed the central importance of the transatlantic partnership and their shared determination to work together for peace, economic growth, and global stability.

The Italian foreign minister reiterated Rome’s full support for diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing further escalation in the Middle East, emphasizing that dialogue remains the only viable path toward regional stability and protection of international navigation routes.

Referring to the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, Tajani said Italy is prepared to contribute to a multilateral defensive naval initiative, once conditions permit, to help ensure freedom of navigation in the strategically important waterway.

He also highlighted the launch of the “Rome Coalition” for fertilizer access and food security linked to Hormuz, describing it as a concrete initiative designed to strengthen international cooperation, protect vulnerable populations, and maintain stability in global food markets.

On regional diplomacy, Tajani said Italy is playing a leading role in supporting United States-facilitated dialogue between Lebanon and Israel.

He said efforts are underway to consolidate the ceasefire, strengthen the capabilities of the Lebanese Armed Forces, improve territorial control, combat illicit trafficking and money laundering, and work toward the disarmament of Hezbollah.

Tajani added that Italy and the United States are also cooperating closely to promote political stability and economic growth in Latin America, which he described as a strategic priority for both countries.