Italy has decided to maintain its diplomatic relations with Egypt, despite calls from some lawmakers to cut ties following the conviction of Egyptian security officials in connection to the abduction of Italian researcher Giulio Regeni. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasized the importance of keeping diplomatic channels open as a means of pursuing the full truth behind Regeni’s tragic case.
A Rome court recently found three Egyptian officials guilty, sentencing each to 10 years in prison for their roles in Regeni’s abduction. A fourth official was acquitted. However, the court’s decision did not establish who was responsible for Regeni’s torture and murder, and the verdict is still subject to appeal.
Meloni expressed solidarity with Regeni’s family and reiterated the Italian government’s commitment to uncovering the truth. She argued that maintaining diplomatic relations with Egypt is crucial for continuing to press for answers in the case. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani supported this approach, stating that Italy continues to engage diplomatically with Egyptian authorities to identify those responsible for Regeni’s death.
The court ruling has sparked criticism from opposition lawmakers, who are urging the Italian government to take more decisive action and demand greater accountability from Egypt. Despite these calls, the government remains steadfast in its strategy to use diplomatic engagement as a tool to seek justice for Regeni.