The Horn of Africa at the Italian Commitment Centre

The Army Corps General Giovanni Maria Iannucci, Interforce Summit Operations Commander (COVI) and former Commander of the Folgore Parachute Brigaderecently concluded an institutional mission in Djibouti and Somalia. A visit of great strategic importance that confirms the commitment of the Italian Armed Forces to the security and stability of the Horn of Africa.

The visit to the Italian Military Support Base (BMIS) in Djibouti

Welcomed to Djibouti by the BMIS CommanderColonel Stefano Capriglione, and by Commander of the Italian Training Mission 'MIADIT SomaliaColonel Fabio Coppolino, General Iannucci visited the entire facility, the logistical hub of Italian missions in the area. Since 2012, in fact, the BMIS has been a crucial hub for supporting Italian military operations in the Horn of Africa, the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean. The base is also home to the Carabinieri contingent of MIADIT, engaged in training activities in favour of local security forces, testifying to Italy's contribution to the stabilisation of the region.

Aboard Nave Martinengo: Maritime Security and Operation 'ASPIDES

General Iannucci continued the visit by embarking on Martinengo Ship, Navy FREMMunder the command of Frigate Captain Giuseppe Germinario. Since 1 February, the naval unit has been the flagship of theEuropean operation 'ASPIDESaimed at ensuring the safety of navigation along the main international trade routes. On this occasion, the COVI Commander addressed the soldiers with greetings from the Minister of Defence, Hon. Guido Crosetto, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Luciano Portolano, emphasising the importance of their role in protecting maritime routes that are essential to the global economy and Europe's energy security.

Italy's contribution to Somalia's security with EUTM-S

In Mogadishu, General Iannucci met with Italian military personnel deployed in the mission European Union Training Mission Somalia (EUTM-S), under the leadership of Brigadier General Giuseppe Zizzari. The mission is aimed at training the Somali National Security Forces in a context marked by political instability and the threat of Al-Shabaab terrorism. During the meeting with Somali authorities, including the Deputy Minister of Defence and the Deputy Chief of Defence Staff, thanks were expressed for the support provided by Italy to local institutions and security forces.

Diplomatic meetings and international cooperation in Mogadishu

During the visit, General Iannucci had significant meetings at the International Campus with the Deputy Head of Mission European Union Capacity Building (EUCAP), the Ambassador of the European Delegation in Somalia, Karin Johansson, and theAmbassador of Italy, Pier Mario Daccò Coppi. The talks reinforced a shared willingness to work together to enhance the capacities of Somali security forces and promote regional stability. The importance of cooperation between European partners and local actors to build solid relations and long-term projects also emerged.

The 'Mattei Plan' for Africa and the Italian strategic vision

General Iannucci highlighted how Italy's commitment in Somalia and Djibouti fits into the vision of the 'Mattei Plan' for Africa. The plan aims to promote new partnerships not only in the security sphere, but also in the fields of agriculture, infrastructure, energy, health and training. "There is no security without development, and there is no development without security," emphasised the COVI Commander, stressing the need for an integrated approach that fosters the economic and social growth of partner countries.

General Giovanni Maria Iannucci's leadership in the service of Defence

With this mission in Djibouti and Somalia, Army General Giovanni Maria Iannucci confirms the leadership of the Italian Armed Forces in the Wider Mediterranean and the crucial role of the Italian presence in the Horn of Africa. A constant commitment to protecting national and European interests and supporting local communities, for a future of stability and shared security.

Source: https://www.difesa.it/smd/news-italia/missione-del-comandante-operativo-vertice-interforze-nel-corno-africa/66371.html