Secretary General: Italy is a core member of NATO

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg commended Italy for its key role in the defence of Allies at the end of a two-day visit to Rome on Friday (14 October 2016). At a joint press conference with Italian Foreign Minister Paolo Gentiloni, Mr. Stoltenberg expressed concern over Russia’s continued bombing of Aleppo and its military activities close to Allied borders. He stressed that NATO will continue to pursue a policy of strong defence and dialogue with Russia. He also highlighted the importance of strong cooperation between NATO and the EU, noting areas where the Alliance can support Operation Sophia.