Riyadh, 7 February 2023 (TDI): The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), Adeel Aljubeir, received the Special Envoy of the Foreign Ministry of Italy, Ambassador Stefano Ravagnan.
During the meeting, the two sides examined the latest regional developments, including their coordination within the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS.
Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS
The Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS was established in 2014 to confront the threat posed by terrorist groups in the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).
The coalition included the US, UK, France, Germany, Australia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, NATO, and many other countries. The alliance used military, intelligence, and diplomatic means to undermine ISIS’s operations and capabilities.
The coalition carried out airstrikes and gave local forces support and training. It also attempted to cut off the group’s funding and recruitment sources. The alliance declared victory over ISIS’s territorial caliphate in 2019 but continues to fight the organization.
Saudi-Italian contribution
KSA and Italy are among the coalition’s members. Saudi Arabia has been a significant contributor to the organization, both militarily and financially.
It has participated in several ISIS-defeating operations in Iraq and Syria. Saudi Arabia has been very active in providing training and logistical support to the Iraqi military. KSA has funded coalition rehabilitation projects and other initiatives.
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Italy has supported the coalition with reconnaissance and ISIS air strikes. Italy has helped resolve the Iraq and Syria war diplomatically and militarily. The country has actively promoted regional peace dialogues and reconciliation.
Italy and Saudi Arabia worked well in the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS. Both countries realize the need for a coordinated approach to work together to promote peace and stability in the region.
Saudi Arabia-Italy Ties
Both countries have longstanding political, economic, and cultural ties. Despite their physical distance and cultural differences, nations have collaborated in many essential ways.
They marked the 90th anniversary of their bilateral relations last year. The Saudi-Italian Treaty of Friendship was signed in 1932. The diplomatic step institutionalized a longstanding relationship.
Saudi-Italian trade is almost $8 billion ($8.43 billion) annually. Italy imports oil from Saudi Arabia and exports machinery, chemicals, and textiles.
In Saudi Arabia, several Italian enterprises employ locals and boost the economy. Italy is participating in Saudi Vision 2030’s giga-projects and other extensive programs.
Italy and Saudi Arabia have longstanding cultural exchange initiatives. These initiatives allow students, artists, and cultural leaders to learn from each other to foster understanding and collaboration between the two countries.
