BEIRUT: The Italian university La Sapienza of Rome in cooperation with the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK) and the Lebanese University Monday launched the third edition of a master’s program in peace and development, which is part of an initiative funded by the Italian Cooperation Office at the Italian Embassy. Speaking at the launch on the USEK campus, the Italian Foreign Affairs Ministry’s coordinator for university cooperation Massimo Caneva said: “In several countries, Italy promotes education initiatives and master’s aimed at including young graduates in process of stabilization, integration and governance, particularly in those countries that suffer traumatic consequences of internal conflicts ... We have to bet on those youth so that they will be the main actors of future dialogue.” Italian Ambassador Giuseppe Morabito, who was also in attendance, emphasized his belief that Lebanon can be an “example of peace and tolerance in the Middle East and a bridge of dialogue between neighboring regions.” Lt. Col. Riccardo Birzi, who attended on behalf of UNIFIL force commander Maj. Gen. Paolo Serra, highlighted the connection between youth, peace and development.