(Communicated by Foreign Ministry Spokesman)
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy, Gianfranco Fini, will arrive tonight (Monday, 20 December 2004) for a two-day working visit in Israel, as the guest of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Silvan Shalom.
During his visit, the visiting minister will meet with Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and with Foreign Minister Shalom.
This is Foreign Minister Fini's first visit to Israel since assuming office a month ago. He has visited Israel twice in the past in his capacity as Deputy Prime Minister of Italy.
Minister Fini will discuss with his hosts the advancement of the positive, friendly and diverse bilateral relations already existing between the two countries. Talks will also be held regarding the peace process and other regional and international topics.