The Kuwait News Agency reported that Lieutenant General Khaled Al-Shuraian conducted high-level talks in Rome with Italian officials to strengthen military cooperation between Kuwait and Italy. The chief of the General Staff of the Kuwaiti Army met with Defense Minister Guido Crosetto and Chief of Defense General Luciano Portolano during the official visit. Discussions included ways to enhance bilateral defense ties and address mutual interests. Kuwaiti Ambassador to Italy Nasser Al-Qahtani attended the meeting with Crosetto.
According to a statement by the Kuwaiti General Staff, Al-Shuraian received an official reception at the Italian Defense General Staff headquarters. The meetings reinforced the long-standing strategic defense partnership and explored further collaboration between the two armed forces. The two sides exchanged views on recent regional developments and efforts to promote security and stability in the area. The delegation consisted of senior Kuwaiti Army officers who accompanied the lieutenant general.
This engagement follows a military cooperation agreement signed in January 2026 by Kuwaiti and Italian defense ministers in Rome. KUNA reported at the time that the pact aimed to improve coordination, exchange expertise and develop joint military activities. The agreement was signed by Sheikh Abdullah Ali Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah and Guido Crosetto. Talks during that visit also covered regional and international developments.
Italy maintains a presence in Kuwait as part of the international coalition against the Islamic State, according to a report from the Congressional Research Service. Kuwait has permitted Italy to base reconnaissance and combat aircraft at its facilities for these operations. The arrangement supports broader efforts to promote regional security and stability. Italian officials have repeatedly expressed appreciation for Kuwait’s support in hosting these forces.
In November 2025, Italy’s Military Attaché in Kuwait Colonel Michele Rega described the bilateral ties as a firmly established model of friendship and cooperation. He told Defaiya that shared values unite Italian and Kuwaiti forces working side-by-side for security in the region. The attaché thanked Kuwait for its continued support at bases including Ali Al-Salem Air Base and Camp Arifjan. Such partnerships have been instrumental in joint operations over the years.
The General Staff statement indicated that the Kuwaiti delegation concluded its official visit to Italy and returned to Kuwait. The reception and meetings took place on Friday according to the released information. Further details on outcomes beyond the discussions were not provided in the initial report. Both nations have maintained active defense diplomacy throughout 2026.
