Secretary of Defense James Mattis met today with Italian Defense Minister Roberta Pinotti in Rome.  They discussed the close U.S.-Italian defense partnership that is built upon a long history of mutual respect and shared values, as well as robust cooperation bilaterally and through NATO.

The two ministers discussed ongoing operations in Afghanistan, the Middle East and Africa, as well as the new U.S. National Defense Strategy, which underscores the importance of the NATO alliance.  Secretary Mattis praised Italy’s important contributions to coalition operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, where Italy is the second largest contributor of troops after the U.S.  Mattis noted the significant role that the Italian Carabinieri and Army are undertaking to train host-nation security forces.

Secretary Mattis applauded Italy’s superior support and cooperation in addressing security threats along NATO's Southern Flank, especially in the Mediterranean.  They discussed deepening cooperation in Africa, and in particular on the stabilization of Libya, where Italy has significant historical experience, and where we share a common interest in the formation of a stable, unified government.

Mattis also thanked Italy for hosting the more than 30,000 U.S. military service members, civilians and family members based on Italian soil.