News Desk
ITALY: February 27, 2024
The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reaffirmed its full support for the work of the Consulta for Freedom of Religion or Belief. On Tuesday, February 11, a delegation from the Consulta met with Ambassador Francesco Genuardi, Chief of Staff of Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, and Deputy Chief of Staff Francesco Santillo at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The delegation was accompanied by Davide Dionisi, the Italian government’s Special Envoy for Religious Freedom.
The meeting provided an opportunity to review the Consulta’s activities and discuss initiatives planned for 2025, following its official presentation at the G7 in Pescara. Ambassador Genuardi reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the Consulta’s efforts in promoting religious freedom.
Shahid Mobeen, President of the Consulta, expressed satisfaction with the Ministry’s renewed support and emphasized the importance placed by the Italian government on the protection of religious freedom. He highlighted the Consulta’s recent achievements, facilitated by Special Envoy Dionisi, which include a hearing at the Chamber of Deputies and multiple engagements with members of the diplomatic corps and Italian institutions. Mobeen reaffirmed the Consulta’s dedication to advocating for individuals facing religious persecution and encouraging sustained political action, particularly in bilateral relations with countries where religious freedom is at risk.
The Consulta for Freedom of Religion or Belief comprises several civil society organizations dedicated to defending religious rights, including Aid to the Church in Need, the Association of Pakistani Christians in Italy, AVSI, the Community of Sant’Egidio, the Oasis International Foundation, and Pro Terra Sancta. Its mission is to promote awareness, monitor global religious freedom, and engage Italian institutions on violations of religious rights in the international sphere.