The Munich Security Conference

On the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, Minister Crosetto met with Curtis M. Scaparrotti, Senior Counselor at COHEN Group. Minister Crosetto reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to European security and defence, both operationally and industrially. Innovation and adaptability are now central elements. Investments, strategic vision, and a strong, shared defence culture are essential. In this context, it is more important than ever to strengthen cooperation among European and Alliance countries through the sharing of technologies, expertise, and strategic information: only a deeper integration of industrial capabilities and defence systems can ensure greater effectiveness, interoperability, and strategic autonomy for Europe and NATO.

“Constructive meeting with Theresa P. Lazaro, Secretary of the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, who confirmed the strength of our bilateral dialogue and our shared commitment to strengthening cooperation between our countries. A central moment was the signing of the new Defence Agreement, which opens new opportunities for the development of industrial capabilities while expanding operational, training, and educational areas. Particular attention was given to the Indo-Pacific, an area of growing strategic importance, and to strengthening synergies in the maritime and aerospace domains, consolidating a long-term-oriented partnership.” This was stated by Minister Guido Crosetto on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.

“During the meeting with Marcus D. Jadotte, Vice President of Government Affairs & Public Policy at Google Cloud, we discussed strengthening the Defence digital infrastructure and developing a cloud component to support management and operational functions. We also explored solutions proposed by leading international technology operators, aiming to combine innovation, security, and digital sovereignty, while enhancing the national industrial ecosystem and the path toward strengthening strategic digital capabilities.” This was stated by Minister Guido Crosetto on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.

Minister Guido Crosetto met, on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, Michael Schoellhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space, to discuss prospects for cooperation in the aerospace sector. During the meeting, the strategic importance of space for security, innovation, and European competitiveness was reaffirmed, in a context already marked by highly dynamic initiatives and projects involving both public and private actors. The importance of strengthening common industrial structures at the European level was emphasized, capable of integrating production expertise and contributing to building a more cohesive, resilient, and globally competitive European space and industrial system.

“Useful and cordial discussion with my British counterpart, John Healey. We confirmed the strengthening of bilateral cooperation, expressing mutual satisfaction for progress in joint training and industrial initiatives, with an increasingly structured approach aligned with NATO standards. On the industrial front, appreciation was expressed for advancements in joint programs, starting with GCAP, aimed at consolidating shared capabilities and enhancing the credibility and effectiveness of European defence at the continental level.” This was stated by Minister Guido Crosetto on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.

“Meeting with Dame Fiona Murray, Chair of the NATO Innovation Fund (NIF) and international expert in science, technology, and innovation policy. An in-depth discussion on investments in new technologies and their strategic impact in addressing emerging challenges in defence, security, and resilience.” This was stated by Minister Guido Crosetto on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.

The Munich Security Conference was an opportunity to meet with Mike Sicilia, CEO of Oracle Corporation, to discuss topics connecting technological innovation, defence, and security. During the meeting, willingness was expressed to further explore the solutions proposed by the company: from using cloud technology to improve the management and sharing of non-classified data, to digital tools capable of collecting and integrating information from multiple systems, and platforms supporting command and coordination activities. This was stated by Minister Guido Crosetto on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.

“Today I met with Stephen (Steve) Parker, CEO of Boeing Defense, Space & Security. We discussed capabilities in the aerospace sector, secure satellite communications, the development of digital systems, and the protection of critical infrastructure. It was a valuable discussion to strengthen innovation, industrial collaboration, and operational readiness, in a context where space, cyber, and traditional defence are increasingly interconnected.” This was stated by Minister Guido Crosetto on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.

Minister Guido Crosetto met, on the sidelines of MSC2026, Éric Béranger, CEO of MBDA, to discuss prospects for collaboration in the defence sector and strengthening the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces. The discussion focused on the role of advanced technologies for the protection of air and maritime space, system integration, and support for the national industry. The importance of the SAMP/T system was also highlighted as a key element of a future European defence architecture, capable of integrating national technological solutions and contributing, over time, to greater strategic autonomy in air and missile defence.

“The meeting with Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall, was dedicated to strengthening cooperation in the field of land defence systems. We specifically discussed the development and production of next-generation military vehicles, the integration of advanced technologies, and the enhancement of the Army’s operational capabilities. The discussion also focused on strengthening the national and European defence industry through technological development, skills growth, and the enhancement of the production chain, with the goal of increasing strategic autonomy, European collaboration, and deterrence capabilities.” This was stated by Minister Guido Crosetto on the sidelines of MSC2026.

“In Munich, on the sidelines of the Security Conference, I met with Michael Punke, Vice President of Global Public Policy at Amazon Web Services. It was an opportunity to discuss the role of cloud infrastructure and data governance as strategic assets for security and defence, with particular focus on cyber resilience, protection of critical infrastructure, and interoperability between systems.” This was stated by Minister Crosetto.

“In the meeting with Lisa Monaco, President Microsoft Global Affairs, we discussed the structural relationship between technological innovation, defence, and security. Among the topics addressed were strengthening digital infrastructure, the use of artificial intelligence, and protection against cyber threats. In a scenario where national security increasingly depends on the ability to manage technology and data, investing in innovation has become a necessary choice.” This was stated by Minister Guido Crosetto on the sidelines of MSC2026.

“With my Pakistani counterpart, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, I had the opportunity to discuss the main strategic scenarios of mutual interest. The conversation focused on stability in the Indo-Pacific, an area increasingly decisive for global balance. We renewed our commitment to intensify political-military dialogue and strengthen bilateral cooperation, developing new synergies in the defence industry and consolidating collaboration in research and innovation.” This was stated by Minister Crosetto on the sidelines of MSC2026.

“Today I met with my Slovenian counterpart, Borut Sajovic, who thanked me for the important contribution Italy provides to the defence of Slovenian airspace through the Air Policing activities of the Italian Air Force. The discussion focused on security and defence cooperation, with particular attention to the Eastern Flank, countering hybrid threats, information manipulation, foreign interference, and the cyber domain. We reaffirmed our shared commitment to strengthening collaboration to jointly face current and future challenges.” This was stated by the Minister of Defence, Guido Crosetto, on the sidelines of MSC2026.

“Cordial first meeting with Elbridge Colby, Under Secretary of the U.S. Department of War. We reaffirmed the historic ties between Italy and the USA, our shared commitment to international stability, and within the Atlantic Alliance. The discussion focused on major crisis areas, including the Middle East and Ukraine, with particular attention to the stability of the southern flank, the importance of the African continent, and countering hybrid warfare. It was also an opportunity to explore the strategic relevance of the Indo-Pacific, increasingly central to global balance and international security. Finally, we shared the intention to strengthen strategic cooperation, including through new partnerships in the defence industry and the development of artificial intelligence applied to security and defence.” This was stated by the Minister of Defence, Guido Crosetto, on the sidelines of MSC2026.

“Candid and constructive discussion with ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher on the strategic importance of space and satellite systems for the defence and security of the country, as well as for the protection of critical infrastructure and communications. Space today is an increasingly central and sensitive domain, marked by complex threats, yet essential for ensuring critical services in both military and civilian contexts. Italy, leveraging its industrial and technological excellence, will continue to invest and strengthen international collaborations, consolidating space as a key factor for security, resilience, and growth.” This was stated by Minister Guido Crosetto on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference MSC2026.

“With the President of Kurdistan, Nechirvan Barzani, I had the opportunity to discuss in depth the issue of security and stability in the Middle East, at a time marked by persistent tensions and new outbreaks of instability. We shared an awareness of Erbil’s central role as a factor of regional balance. In this context, countering threats to security remains a priority, starting with the resurgence of Daesh, as well as supporting any initiative aimed at preventing further destabilization. The bond between our Armed Forces and the Peshmerga represents a pillar of this cooperation, with the shared objective of strengthening security, resilience, and lasting peace in the area.” Thus stated Minister Guido Crosetto on the sidelines of MSC2026.

“Today in Munich, during MSC2026, I had the opportunity to meet in person for the first time (after many video teleconferences) with my counterpart Shinjirō Koizumi, Japan’s Minister of Defence. We reaffirmed the need to strengthen the strategic partnership in the defence sector between Italy and Japan, based on shared values and a common vision on defence and security. During the meeting, we emphasized the central role of cooperation between our Armed Forces and the growing geo-strategic relevance of the Indo-Pacific, an area increasingly interconnected with the Mediterranean, and we confirmed our commitment to GCAP, considered the main programme linking the two countries in terms of industrial and technological cooperation.” This was stated by Minister Guido Crosetto on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.

On the occasion of the Munich Security Conference, the Minister of Defence, Guido Crosetto, met with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the Slovak Republic, Robert Kaliňák. “A constructive discussion on the main global security issues. In an increasingly complex international context, we reaffirmed our commitment to strengthening cooperation between our Armed Forces in support of collective defence. The focus was also on the Alliance’s Eastern Flank and on Euro-Atlantic stability and security.” This is what Minister Crosetto said.

“Warm meeting with my Argentine colleague Carlos Alberto Presti to strengthen cooperation between Italy and Argentina in the defense sector. We shared the intention to consolidate a long-term partnership, with particular focus on industrial cooperation in the land and naval domains. We reaffirmed the importance of increasing interoperability between our Armed Forces, also through the participation of Argentine officers in our exercises. In this context, Italy will work to facilitate Argentina’s rapprochement with NATO, starting with its participation as an observer in the main exercises. All of this follows the path of the traditional and deep ties that bind the two countries.” Thus stated Minister Guido Crosetto on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.

Ministro della Difesa,  Guido Crosetto, a margine della Conferenza sulla Sicurezza di Monaco, ha avuto un cordiale incontro con il collega della Mauritania, Hanana Oul Sidi. 
Al centro del colloquio la comune volontà di rafforzare la collaborazione per la sicurezza dell’area e, più in generale, del Sahel, regione la cui stabilità è essenziale per garantire quella del fianco sud dell’Europa.
"Siamo pronti a individuare nuovi ambiti di cooperazione, anche alla luce della imminente firma dell'Accordo intergovernativo di cooperazione nel settore della difesa, promuovendo altresì sviluppo e crescita condivisa nell’ambito del Piano Mattei, con l’obiettivo di consolidare la stabilità regionale, secondo un approccio paritetico volto a creare relazioni stabili e durature”. Così il Ministro Crosetto.

"Il Ministro della Difesa, Guido Crosetto, è in Germania per partecipare alla 62^ Conferenza sulla Sicurezza di Monaco, evento annuale di confronto sui principali temi di difesa e sicurezza globale.