Italy: (Report by Adan Farhaj) The Italian Council for Religious Freedom and Dialogue met this morning with Cristiana Mele, Coordinator for the promotion of interfaith dialogue at the international level within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

The meeting served as an important opportunity for discussion and reaffirmed the shared focus and commitment of both the Council and the Ministry (the *Farnesina*) to promoting and protecting religious freedom—a fundamental human right and an essential component

Particular attention was paid to the need to raise public awareness regarding violations of religious freedom worldwide. This involves giving greater visibility to situations of persecution and discrimination—and, specifically, to the suffering of Christian communities in conflict zones and in countries where the freedom to profess and live out one’s faith is severely restricted or denied.

"Protecting religious freedom is of particular importance in the *Farnesina*’s international efforts," Mele emphasized. "In this context, dialogue and the mutual exchange of information with organizations and groups active on the ground provide a valuable contribution toward a deeper understanding of the vulnerabilities and challenges faced by religious communities in various settings."

"Religious freedom is a fundamental right and an essential prerequisite for peace, dialogue, and coexistence among peoples and communities," stated Prof. Shahid Mobeen, President of the Italian Council for Religious Freedom and Dialogue. "It is therefore crucial to strengthen collaboration between institutions and civil society and to help shed light on the reality faced by those who still suffer discrimination, violence, and persecution today because of their faith—with special attention to Christian communities, which endure conditions of extreme vulnerability in numerous areas of conflict and crisis." The meeting confirmed the commitment to continue dialogue and cooperation, while also fostering a constant exchange of information and helping to keep religious freedom at the forefront of public attention and Italy’s international action.