Meloni visits Norway to expand energy and defense cooperation

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni conducted an official visit to Oslo to meet with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, marking the first such visit by an Italian head of government in nearly 15 years. The summit focused on transforming the existing energy relationship into a broader strategic partnership.

Energy security remains a central pillar, with Norway serving as Italy’s fourth-largest gas supplier and providing approximately 10% of its national consumption. Discussions aimed to expand cooperation into critical raw materials, defense, space technology, and the underwater domain. Major Italian industrial players, including Eni, Leonardo, Fincantieri, and Saipem, are central to these expanding economic ties.

On the geopolitical front, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Ukraine’s resilience and seeking a just, lasting peace. Meloni also addressed security concerns regarding Russia, warning against Moscow’s provocations, and emphasized the importance of European strategic autonomy and cooperation with partners like Norway and the United Kingdom.