The Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies hosted a roundtable discussion on the 3rd of July 2024, with Ambassador Pasquale Ferrara, Director General for Political Affairs and International Security at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. The event included participation from a delegation of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as researchers from The Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies and The Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies. The roundtable discussion aimed to thoroughly explore and analyze Italy's foreign policy initiatives and strategies in the Middle East.
The roundtable commenced with an exploration of literature, focusing on the works of Francis Fukuyama and Samuel Huntington, analyzing their theories, and debating their relevance to current global dynamics, drawing parallels between historical perspectives and modern challenges.
In the realm of foreign policy, the discussion turned to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and Gaza. Ambassador Ferrara examined the geopolitical implications, the international response, and the potential pathways to peace and stability in the region. Moreover, the Oslo Accords served as a reference point for the conversation. The participants discussed the historical context, the effectiveness of the accords, and the persistent challenges to achieving a lasting resolution.
The conversation then shifted to the media portrayal of the Gaza conflict, highlighting the disproportionate media focus on Hamas compared to the limited coverage of Israeli actions. Participants also discussed the efforts to define resistance and the implications of labeling resistance movements as terrorists, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of conflict narratives.
Towards the end of the discussion, Ambassador Ferrara underscored Qatar's pivotal role in mediating during the conflict, commending and appreciating its efforts to foster dialogue and alleviate tensions. He emphasized that this roundtable discussion marks a significant step toward advancing peace and cooperation.
For more information, contact us at: chs@chs-doha.org