The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Luca Beccari, met yesterday with Father Ibrahim Faltas, Vicar of the Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land, one year after his last visit to San Marino. At a time of such great concerns and growing tensions due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the meeting was particularly important because of the profound testimony that Father Ibrahim gave to the Minister; the Vicar of the Holy Land described the growing tragedy and humanitarian emergency faced by so many civilians, both in Gaza and throughout the West Bank.

The position of San Marino was emphasised, also in the light of the most recent position expressed within the United Nations and of the willingness to express closeness, support, and active commitment for a political solution for the two Parties in the conflict.

Alongside Father Ibrahim, the Magnificent Rector of the University of Perugia, Prof. Maurizio Oliviero, was also present. He was a speaker at the evening meeting held at the House of Spirituality San Giuseppe in San Marino entitled “Christians and the Holy Land”. Prof. Maurizio Oliviero, an expert in Middle East matters and actively involved in fostering peace dialogue, and the Minister confirmed the active interest in ensuring that San Marino can play a pro-active role in encouraging the easing of tensions and a peaceful dialogue between the parties.

San Marino, 20 May 2024