ROME- Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has concluded his first official state visit to Italy and the Vatican, following meetings with President Sergio Mattarella, Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni and His Holiness Pope Francis at the Vatican.

 The visit comes after both Trudeau and Gentiloni met at the G7 summit in Sicily last week and was an attempt to strengthen the close relationship already shared by Italy and Canada, as the pair discussed topical issues such as climate change and defence.

 At a joint news conference in Rome, Tuesday, the Italian Prime Minister confirmed that Italy would not go back on the Paris climate agreement, following U.S President Donald Trump’s comments after the G7 summit that he would announce his decision on a U.S withdrawal this week.

 “We took note of the U.S’ different position but I hope that this position will turn out in a positive way,” said Gentiloni.

 “It is an agreement from which we do not mean to retreat,” he added.

 Prime Minister Trudeau echoed his Italian counterpart’s comments, stating, “the only way to move forward is to protect the environment whilst creating the jobs we need for today and tomorrow.”

 Later, addressing the Italian Parliament, the Canadian emphasised the close relationship between the two countries.

 “Italy is a strong ally and friend. Our relationship is built on tremendous people-to-people connections and close economic collaboration. With CETA, we can deliver promising new opportunities for middle class Canadians and Italians alike,” he said.

 Previously, Trudeau had met with Pope Francis at the Vatican, Monday.

 “His Holiness Pope Francis' message of hope and inclusion resonates deeply with Canadians. Together, we discussed the central role that human dignity must play in global issues like migration, and the responsibility that we have for each other and the planet we share,” said Trudeau after the talks.

 Prime Minister Trudeau then invited Pope Francis to visit Canada.

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