The Ambassador of Italy to Nigeria, Lacopo Foti, has expressed his country’s readiness to support the Kaduna State government’s investment drive by encouraging Italian companies to invest in the state.

Mr Foti spoke on Saturday when he paid a courtesy call to Deputy Governor Hadiza Balarabe at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House.

“We have come to introduce ourselves, learn about the government’s plans, and see if there are investments which you want the Italian Embassy to facilitate.

“If there are private investments you desire in Kaduna, especially in machinery or manufacturing, or if you have plans for the next few years, let us know.

“If you’re interested in agricultural machinery companies like tractor plants, we can make contact with them,’’ he said.

The ambassador encouraged the Kaduna State government to approach the embassy, vowing, “We will link you up.”

Mr Foti said Italy was ready to collaborate with the state government in manufacturing, technology and other areas.

“After the courtesy visit, where possible collaborations in agriculture, education and training were discussed; in the coming months, we hope to do something concrete.

“We await proposals from Kaduna state regarding their interests, which we’ll take to the Italian government,” Mr Foti said.

Mr said Italian investors would find Kaduna’s climate better than Abuja’s, adding, ”Its people are friendly.”

“This is my first time in Kaduna, and I hope to return next month. We have Italians living here; this visit is an opportunity to meet them and see how we can help them and the state government,” he said.

Responding, Ms Balarabe acknowledged the long history between Italy and Nigeria, expressing interest in establishing strong economic relations.

She highlighted Kaduna State’s advantages in agriculture, solid minerals, tourism, energy, technology and human capital development.

The deputy governor said the state was the largest producer of maize, tomatoes and ginger in Nigeria.

“We have advantages in agriculture, mining, tourism, and human capital. Italy excels in manufacturing, technology, education, and renewable energy. I hope we can establish collaboration in these areas,” she said.

Ms Balarabe directed the Kaduna Investment Promotion Agency(KADIPA) to prepare a proposal for the Italian embassy.

She said the Kaduna State government was looking forward to engaging with the ambassador further, hoping, ‘’this won’t be your last visit to Kaduna.’’

(NAN)