Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated that her meeting with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed went well and that the governments of both countries will work on rebuilding excellent relations, noting, "we are about to return to a strategic partnership." In comments to reporters in Abu Dhabi, she explained that "Italy has a history of very strong relations with the UAE, but those relations have faced significant difficulties in recent years." Italy halted the sale of thousands of missiles to Saudi Arabia and the UAE in 2021, indicating Rome's commitment to restoring peace in Yemen. The UAE, in turn, requested Italy to vacate a military base in the Gulf.
Meloni pointed out that "the UAE can play a key role in several issues of concern to Italy, such as the stability of Libya and the financial difficulties facing Tunisia, both of which affect migration flows, as well as Italy’s energy policy towards Africa," adding, "in all these matters, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed expressed his willingness to help." She believes that "both sides have a strong will to rebuild relations that are not just good but excellent, a friendship that I believe is very important for our national interests."
During Meloni's visit, the Italian state energy company Eni signed a cooperation agreement with the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) aimed at reducing emissions, improving energy security, and accelerating low-carbon economic and industrial growth. Additionally, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani signed a declaration of intent on climate strategy with Emirati Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, who is also the UAE's special envoy for climate change and the designated president of the upcoming COP28 climate summit, who pledged last month to establish a comprehensive and innovative roadmap to combat global warming.
