Monday, February 14 2005 13:23 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: Hailing India as a peace-loving nation, Italian President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi today (Feb 14, 2005) said that he looked forward to consolidate Rome's relations with New Delhi during his current visit.

"It is a pleasure and privilege for me to be here... The visit is extremely significant because it offers an opportunity to two peace-loving countries to reiterate our commitment to peace and consolidate our ties," Ciampi told reporters after being accorded a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.

The visiting dignitary was presented a guard of honour in the presence of President A P J Abdul Kalam and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

India and Italy will sign several accords to enhance bilateral cooperation in fisheries, preservation of heritage and other areas during Ciampi's five-day State visit.

Ciampi, the first Italian President to visit India in 10 years, arrived in Delhi on Saturday (Feb 12, 2005) along with his wife and a high-level delegation.

The post-election situation in Iraq, UN reforms, European Union (EU)-India strategic partnership, developments in this region and other issues of mutual concern are expected to come up during talks he will have with Singh and other leaders in Delhi.

Among the accords to be inked during the visit are Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Fisheries and Aqua-culture production and Agreement for cooperation in conservation of paintings of Ajanta and Ellora Caves.