Dec. 31 – “The Italian – African initiative wants to turn the spotlight on Africa to show clearly both in Italy and in Africa the possibilities offered by a mutual cooperation on all fronts: political, economic, social and cultural development,” says Foreign Minister Emma Bonino about the Italian initiative presented at the Foreign Ministry, through which Italy wishes to promote a number of initiatives to boost the relations with the African continent. The sectors involved include agriculture, energy, infrastructure and culture. “Culture is a powerful exchange carrier and a tool box capable of bridging two realities that may appear remote,” said Culture Minister Massimo Bray speaking at the conference. “Culture is also an area in which mutual cooperation can be fruitful and enriching, especially when the accent is placed on the historical traditions between two countries, such as in contemporary art, as has already happened for the Biennale of Venice.” The initiative, according to Bonino, “is not only inter-ministerial but concerns the whole Italian system,” aiming straight at the Milan Expo 2015. “We are working to make sure the cultural paths of this project – added Bray – can become a theme of confrontation between us and the countries of Africa.” For the Minister of Integration, Cécile Kyenge, both the Expo and this Italia-African initiative have to “involve African communities in our country.” Bonino has stressed, however, that “it will be the responsibility of the single African countries to set Italy as their priority; if we can work well, with a bit of time and a little input, in 2015 we will hold am Italy – Africa conference.”