standing between our Governments with regard to their respective interests in the Mediterranean. On the occasion of these talks, and in order to rule out completely any possible misunderstanding between our two countries, I do not hesitate, in order to clarify their overall relations, to make the following unilateral declarations to Your Excellency on behalfofthe Government of His Majesty the King. Should France be subjected to any act of direct or indirect aggression by one or more Powers, Italy would maintain strict neutrality. The same would apply if France, as the result of a direct provoca­ tion, were obliged, for the defence of its honour and its security, to take the initiative in declaring war. In that eventuality, the Govern­ ment of the Republic shall communicate its intention in advance to the Royal Government, which would thus be enabled to verify that it was indeed a case of direct provocation. In order to remain true to the spirit of friendship which has inspired these declarations, I am also authorized to confirm that Italy is not a party to, and will not conclude, any protocol or military arrangement of an international contractual nature which would run counter to these declarations. I have to add that, save with regard to the interpretation of the Mediterranean interests of the two Powers, which is of a definitive nature in accordance with the spirit of the exchange of letters dated 14 and 16 December 1900 between Your Excellency and Marquis Visconti Venosta, since the preceding declarations are in keeping with Italy's present international commitments, the Royal Govern­ ment intends that they shall have full force until such time as the Government of the Republic has been informed of any change in those commitments. I should be grateful if Your Excellency would acknowledge re­
**Analysis**
This text appears to be a diplomatic statement or treaty between two countries, specifically France and Italy, discussing their mutual interests and commitments in the Mediterranean region. It does not contain any specific references to economic development, natural resources, health, education, employment, humanitarian aid, or culture. The language used is formal and diplomatic, indicating that the text is likely a binding agreement or declaration.

**Category**
International trade, Transport and communication