Riyadh, April 2025 – From April 14 to 17, a significant institutional mission took place involving General of the Army Corps Carmine Masiello, Chief of Staff of the Italian Army, in Saudi Arabia, aimed at consolidating and strengthening the already solid bond between the Italian and Saudi Armed Forces. A key moment to reaffirm Italy's role as a strategic partner in the Gulf region, through cooperation that looks to the future of global security.
A Strategic Dialogue Between Allied Armies
During the visit, Gen. C.A. Masiello was received at the Royal Saudi Arabian Land Force Command, where he met with Lt. Gen. Fahd bin Saud bin Dhuwaihir AL-JUHNI, Commander of the Saudi Land Forces. The meeting included an operational briefing on the capabilities and organization of the Saudi forces, followed by a discussion with the Chief of Staff of the Saudi Defense, Gen. Fayyad bin Hammed AL RUWAILI.
During the discussion, the Chief of Staff emphasized the value of cooperation between the two armed forces, stating:
“Military cooperation is one of the many pillars that strengthen the deep friendship between our countries. The sharing of values of dialogue, hospitality, and respect for others, as well as common responsibilities to ensure international peace and stability, enrich the prospects for elevating bilateral relations between the two Armies. We are ready for a structured action plan, with shared priorities, starting from the training sector as a driving force to deepen mutual understanding and grow together, questioning the emerging challenges and the future of scenarios.”
Training and Exchanges: The New Priorities
One of the central points of the mission was the initiation of a structured action plan, based on shared priorities. Among these, the training sector stands out, seen as an engine of joint growth and mutual understanding.
On the second day of the visit, Gen. Masiello visited the Saudi National Defence University, where he met with Maj. Gen. Mohammed Jadou AL RUWAILI, President of the university, and toured the educational facilities. Following this, he visited the prestigious King Abdulaziz Military Academy, engaging with Maj. Gen. Ali bin Saleh AL-HUDHAIF, Commander of the Academy.
In both cases, the dialogue focused on academic exchange programs and joint training, promoting the development of Saudi personnel's skills and entry into training courses in Italy, at Italian military institutions of excellence.
Technology, Joint Exercises, and Defense Industry
Beyond the training aspects, the mission addressed topics related to the strengthening of industrial and technological cooperation. The possibility of participation in bilateral exercises was discussed, as well as the initiation of collaborations aimed at developing new operational capabilities, in synergy with the Italian defense industry.
This approach aims to develop innovative solutions for shared challenges in modern geopolitical scenarios, strengthening regional stability and security, in line with the needs of the two nations.
A Diplomatic Bond Looking to the Future
The visit concluded with an official dinner at the residence of the Italian Ambassador in Riyadh, S.E. Carlo Baldocci, as a testament to the importance of diplomatic dialogue and institutional understanding between the two countries.
The journey of Gen. C.A. Masiello in Saudi Arabia represents a concrete step towards comprehensive strategic cooperation, involving not only military aspects but also educational, industrial, and technological ones. An understanding that contributes to international peace and collective security, confirming Italy as a trusted interlocutor in the global defense scenario.
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