Towards stronger international cooperation under the 2018 Italian Chairmanship of the 5+5 Defence Initiative The 5+5 Defence Initiative 26th Steering Committee meeting was held in Florence, at the ISMA (Air War College) as part of the international activities carried out by the Defence General Staff.

The representatives of the ten 5+5 Initiative member countries (Algeria, France, Italy, Libya, Malta, Morocco, Mauritania, Portugal, Spain, and Tunisia) presented cooperation activities and projects related to security and defence in the Western Mediterranean to be carried out in 2018 and 2019.

Issues of common interest were tackled and cooperation areas for further development were identified thereby supporting the words of Steering Committee Chairman, Major General (Air Force) Alberto Biavati: "The Western Mediterranean deserves an increasing commitment in the face of some instability elements that could jeopardize security in the region, in the neighbouring areas and in the international system. The Mediterranean is a strategic priority for Italy".

This year Italy has taken over the 5+5 Defence Initiative Chairmanship with the aim of strengthening cooperation relations and activities among the partner countries in the fields of Air Defence, fight against terrorism, maritime surveillance and research and training on common issues for security and stability in the Western Mediterranean region. The Action Plan approved for 2018 includes 44 activities, 16 of which will be led by Italy.

During his welcoming address, the Commander of the ISMA, Major General Stefano Fort, Italian Air Force, expressed his deep satisfaction that the Institute had been chosen for the meeting and underlined its historical and cultural importance and value: "The ISMA is more and more becoming a think tank and cultural hub of the Armed Forces".

The works were carried out in an atmosphere of shared commitment and cooperation thereby confirming the constructive spirit that has characterised the Committee since its inception in 2004.