Italian PM makes surprise Gulf visit amid energy security push

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has made an unannounced visit to Gulf states, arriving in Jeddah as part of a regional tour.

Meloni is the first European leader to visit the region since the start of the US and Israeli military operation against Iran, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Over the next two days, she is expected to hold talks with senior leaders across the Gulf, including visits to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar.

Sources from the Palazzo Chigi, the Italian prime minister’s office, said the main purpose of the trip is to strengthen Italy’s energy security, given the region’s key role in global oil production.

The visit comes as Rome continues efforts to manage domestic energy costs. The Italian government recently agreed to extend a fuel tax cut until May 1 in a bid to contain prices. Economy and Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti said the measure is expected to cost around €500 million.

By Aghakazim Guliyev