Amb.Crudele, with Australia we strengthen defence relations

(ANSA) - ROMA, 17 DIC - The strengthening of bilateral relations between Italy and Australia passes through the defence sector, the Italian ambassador to Canberra, Paolo Crudele, was interviewed by ANSA on the sidelines of the second day of the States General of Diplomacy at the Farnesina.
    "Australia has become a country of great importance in the Indo-Pacific area," the ambassador stressed, recalling the conclusion of the Aukus agreement with the United States and the United Kingdom, "a sort of military alliance that is taking shape. There is great concern in that part of the world about Chinese assertiveness, so there are mechanisms being set in motion for cooperation, especially at the military level, and we are beginning to participate very actively. This year, Italian defence participated for the first time in Pitch Black, a military exercise organised by Australia every two years in which some 20 countries take part. For the first time, Italy took part and was the most represented foreign force: we brought the naval outfit of the aircraft carrier Cavour, 24 combat aircraft, so a very significant presence. It is a gesture of military cooperation, but at the same time it is a foreign policy action: Italy is taking an interest in the Indo-Pacific and intends to play a role, especially that of protecting freedom of navigation,' Crudele explained.