The Iranian leader on Monday met with his Italian counterpart Sergio Mattarella and prime minister, Matteo Renzi, with whom he attended the signing of several economic agreements in the setting of the Capitole.
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But nude statues, including a Venus dating from the second century BC, had all been covered up in temporary wooden cartons, removing the risk of them creeping into any of the shots – or catching Mr Rouhani’s eye.
During his visit to Rome on Monday, Rouhani toured the Musei Capitolini (Capitoline Museums), accompanied by Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi.
In a standard diplomatic gesture for visiting Muslim dignitaries, alcoholic beverages were also not served at an official dinner held in Rouhani’s honor.
Many Western nations have accused Iran of funding various militant groups, and despite the nuclear deal between world powers and Tehran previous year, the United States is keeping some of its financial sanctions in place because of its links to organizations such as Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Last year, an unsourced French radio report said the Iranian leader had canceled a lunch at the French presidential palace because the palace refused to offer a halal menu without wine.
“The genitals on display offend the Iranian president…’I think this is their premier’…’Welcome to Italy!'”.
The Vatican in a statement said the conversation delved into the nuclear accord recently taking effect and “the important role that Iran was called to play” to combat terrorism along with other countries in the region.
“Iran is the safest, most stable country in the entire region”, said Rouhani according to AFP.
Describing his visit with the pontiff as “a real pleasure”, Mr Rouhani also called on Francis to pray for him.
After Rome, Rouhani heads to Paris.
His European trip was originally planned for November but postponed because of the attacks in Paris.
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“We have broad joint economic plans (with Italy), the scope of which is not confined to Iran and Italy, and will include the regional countries as well”, President Rouhani explained.
