Atlantic Council launches Rome program to boost Mediterranean strategy

The Atlantic Council has launched a new Rome program aimed at strengthening strategic dialogue between the United States, Italy, and Europe regarding North Africa and the Middle East. The initiative seeks to create a platform for strategic planning at a time when Western influence in these regions is increasingly contested and policy alignment between Washington and European capitals is lacking.

Karim Mezran, director of the North Africa Initiative at the Atlantic Council, stated that Rome could serve as an essential link between the Atlantic and the southern Mediterranean. Mezran noted that a lack of coordination between the U.S. and Italy is causing both parties to lose influence in Libya. He emphasized the need for a reciprocal relationship where Italy assists the U.S. in addressing regional challenges, while the U.S. provides necessary support to Italy's frontline efforts.