"We cherish the open and dynamic political dialogue at high level and the effective economic cooperation between the two countries, also through an increasingly productive and creative involvement of both minorities," Pahor wrote in the congratulatory cable as cited by his office.

He went on to say that he "is looking forward to future opportunities for cooperation for the prosperity of the citizens of both countries and to the benefit of a stronger and more cohesive Europe".

According to Pahor's office, the two presidents will also talk over the phone in the coming days.

Mattarella was sworn in as Italy's 12th president at a joint session of both chambers of parliament on Tuesday, after being elected by an electoral college comprising 1,009 members on Saturday to succeed Giorgio Napolitano for a seven-year term in office.

Hailing from Sicily, Mattarella is known for his efforts in the fight against mafia. He has served as a constitutional judge.