Chairman of the Military Committee praises Italy’s contribution to NATO
Chairman of the Military Committee, General Petr Pavel visited Rome from 12 to 14 October to meet with Italy’s President Sergio Mattarella, Minister of Defence Roberta Pinotti, Chief of Defence General Claudio Graziano, and NATO Defense College Commandant Major General Janusz Bojarski. He also visited the Joint Special Forces Operations Headquarters, the Italian Joint Operations Headquarters, the NATO Modelling and Simulation Centre of Excellence, and the European Union Naval Force - Mediterranean.
Chairman of the NATO Military Committee, General Pavel visited Italy, a strong and committed NATO ally who has continuously contributed to NATO efforts over the past 60 years. In discussions with Minister of Defence Roberta Pinotti, General Pavel thanked Italy for its commitment to NATO operations, missions and activities. "Italy is a valued Ally. You continue to contribute to NATO in many areas for which we are grateful, and your contributions serve as an example to others.”
Meeting the Chief of Defence, General Graziano, talks focused on Italy’s ongoing contributions to Maritime operations in the Mediterranean Sea as well as the importance of equal opportunities for women in the armed forces. The Chairman emphasized: “the complementary skills of both male and female personnel are essential for the effectiveness of NATO operations.
General Pavel visited the Joint Special Forces Operations Headquarters in Rome where he was welcomed by Commander Major General Nicola Zanelli and received a briefing by the Joint Forces Staff. The Chairman then went to the Italian Joint Operations Headquarters where he met with Vice Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone and attended a briefing by the Italian Joint Operations Staff.
Touring the European Union Naval Force – Mediterranean, headquarters of Operation Sophia, the Chairman noted: “The loss of life in the Mediterranean is a tragedy. Security in the Mediterranean is a priority for both NATO and the EU. Closer cooperation between NATO and the EU is key to dealing with current and emerging security challenges.”
During his visit of the NATO Modelling and Simulation Centre of Excellence, the Chairman acknowledged their excellent work in supporting NATO and its allies in their transformation efforts by providing subject matter expertise on all aspects of modelling and simulation activities.
While in Italy, General Pavel accompanied by the Military Committee participated in celebrations commemorating the 65th anniversary of the NATO Defense College and the 50th anniversary of its move to Rome. They joined the NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, the North Atlantic Council, and Italian dignitaries in praising its contributions. “For 65 years, the NDC has played a critical role in fostering strategic level thinking on political and military matters. NATO is proud of this centre of education, study, and research” said the Chairman.