New Delhi, May 30 -- Two high-profile concerts involving American rappers Kanye West and Travis Scott have been cancelled in Italy after local authorities raised concerns about public safety, security and the potential for protests.

The performances were scheduled to take place in July at the RCF Arena in Reggio Emilia, one of Europe's largest outdoor concert venues. Scott was due to headline the 'Pulse of Gaia Festival' on July 17, with West, who now performs under the name Ye, set to appear at the same venue the following day.

The decision to prohibit the events was announced by Reggio Emilia prefect Salvatore Angieri, who said local officials had assessed the risks associated with hosting two large-scale concerts within a short perio...