Official visit by Minister Crosetto to Egypt

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Defence Minister Guido Crosetto, on an official visit to Egypt, met with Italian military personnel deployed in the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) mission, bringing greetings and thanks from the Italian government.

"I am proud to convey the greetings and thanks of the Italian Government to the Italian contingent engaged in the MFO (Multinational Force and Observers) mission, a fundamental bastion of stability and peace in the Middle East. The men and women of our Navy who, like all their colleagues in the Armed Forces, serve and honour the Italian flag with competence, dedication and a spirit of sacrifice, wherever they are called upon to operate. I often think that many of you consider your work to be “normal”, facing daily difficulties with seriousness and commitment. But the truth is that the sum of each of your efforts is fundamental to the country.
We often do not realise how much our contribution, however small it may seem, is part of a larger mechanism that can really make a difference. It is not always visible, but behind every daily gesture there is the destiny, honour and courage of people we will never know. And this applies to the work carried out by all the women and men in the Defence Forces. It is often silent work, but it carries enormous weight. That is why I am here today to say thank you and to recognise your value, which too often remains invisible. Italy's role, its credibility in the world, and the respect it commands in many international scenarios also derive - and above all - from people like you. Men and women who, without fanfare, have built all this simply by doing their duty well," said the Minister.

During his visit to Egypt, Minister Crosetto had a cordial meeting with the Director General, Ms Elizabeth Dibble, and the Force Commander, Australian Major General Michael Garraway, of the MFO, an international mission established following the 1978 Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt.

"The MFO plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with and implementation of the peace treaty between the two countries. Among its most important tasks is the facilitation of military dialogue, which is essential for strengthening mutual trust, promoting transparency and supporting a solid and lasting peace, thus helping to preserve a delicate balance in the entire region.
In an international context characterised by growing tensions, the role of the MFO extends far beyond the operational sphere, also including political and diplomatic dimensions.
As Ms Dibble pointed out, it is essential that all member countries continue to strongly support the mission's efforts.
The MFO is composed of contingents from 14 different countries, with nine countries contributing financial resources. 
Italy confirms its contribution, aware of the strategic role it plays in controlling the Strait of Tiran, one of Israel's few access points to the Red Sea.
This commitment testifies to our country's willingness to contribute to collective security and international peace, in accordance with the principles of the Constitution and international law," said the Minister.

Also yesterday, the Minister visited the Italian Navy ship Andrea Doria, returning from the European operation EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, and met with the crew.

"I am here today to express the gratitude that the Italian State owes you. You have protected the well-being of many people: behind every commercial ship you escort, there is a piece of the life of a citizen in his and our homeland. The sum of all that you do builds the good and interests of the nation," said Defence Minister Guido Crosetto, who then continued:

"This is what makes your work extraordinary: every day, you proudly serve the flag and the institutions, and you know that you are doing so for the country, every day, with honour. Serving in the Armed Forces means giving up important moments in your private life — such as the birth of a child — to fulfil your duty to your country. That is why I would also like to thank your families, whom you have not seen for months, but who support you with strength and pride in your service. For this reason, on a personal level and on behalf of the entire country, I bow before you," emphasised the Minister, who finally concluded:

"Being here today means recognising the value of those who work far from home, often in difficult conditions, with dedication, professionalism and a deep sense of duty. At sea, authentic, deep and unbreakable bonds are formed: this is the true strength of a crew. And this is the strength of the Defence and the Armed Forces: extraordinary people, united by common values, who serve Italy with determination every day."