Italian Ambassador: Defense Cooperation Agreement with Kuwait to Be Approved Soon

The Italian Ambassador to Kuwait, Lorenzo Morini, affirmed the depth and excellence of Kuwaiti-Italian relations across various fields, particularly defense, security, economy, investment, and education. He noted that Italy is keen to continue supporting Kuwait and contributing to enhancing the region’s security and stability, as well as safeguarding freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

During a press conference, Morini described the defense and security cooperation between Kuwait and Italy as “strong,” explaining that approximately 400 Italian military personnel were stationed in Kuwait as part of the international coalition against the Daesh (ISIS) terrorist group. He emphasized that Italy’s message from the outset was clear: “We are here to stay and to help and support Kuwait.”

Regarding the defense cooperation agreement between the two countries, Morini revealed that Italy has completed its ratification procedures, with only the signature of the Italian President remaining as a final formal step. He expected to notify Kuwait of Italy’s ratification shortly.

He clarified that the agreement focuses on training, joint exercises, and the exchange of expertise, information, and defense materials. It does not pertain to a specific deal or a particular weapons system, but rather constitutes a general framework paving the way for signing memoranda of understanding and detailed agreements in various fields, including anti-drone systems.

Morini pointed out that Italy is also negotiating a cooperation agreement with the Kuwait National Guard, covering the exchange of expertise in protecting facilities and strategic infrastructure, protecting dignitaries, and combating the smuggling of antiquities and artworks.

He disclosed that cooperation with Kuwait continues in several defense systems, noting that Italian companies have already supplied the National Guard with ammunition for short-range weapons and other materials.

On the training file, Morini stated that approximately 30 members of the Kuwait Air Force are currently in Italy, along with two officers from the Kuwait Navy. He also mentioned the presence of an Italian military officer at the Mubarak Al-Abdullah College of Joint Command and Staff as part of the expertise exchange programs.

Morini emphasized that Kuwaiti-Italian discussions focus on supporting Kuwait’s self-defense and assisting in preventing any potential aggression, as well as rallying international support for respecting international law and ensuring freedom of navigation in the “Hormuz” Strait.

He stated that freedom of passage through the strait represents a vital interest for Kuwait, Italy, Europe, Asia, and the international community as a whole, given its link to energy supplies, food, medicines, and global supply chains. He warned that disruptions to navigation in “Hormuz” or the “Bab al-Mandab” Strait would directly impact global prices.

Morini praised Kuwait’s performance during the recent war crisis, affirming that it demonstrated significant resilience and maintained the availability of food, energy, and water without notable issues.

He stressed that Kuwait is capable of playing an important political role in the region, thanks to its diplomatic approach, good relations with various Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and regional partners, and its commitment to dialogue, respect for international law, and the role of the United Nations.

On the economic front, Morini said that the two countries are working to support partnerships between their private sectors and to encourage Kuwaiti investments in Italy and Italian investments in Kuwait.

He noted that the European Union is discussing a strategic partnership agreement with Kuwait, which represents a first step toward eventually reaching a comprehensive free trade agreement between the EU and the GCC countries.