A more secure Euro-Atlantic region 69. The size of the Euro-Atlantic security system is vital to the defence of Italy and the protection of its national interests. Only the Atlantic Alliance has the capabilities to deter and defend the Euro-Atlantic territory from conventional military threats. Although this type of threat is not currently considered likely, it is not to be excluded. The only strategy that can maximize the security framework and mitigate the risks is that of active participation in NATO. 70. In this context, Italy will have to be a net contributor to security, maximizing the operational capacity that it offers and focusing on making a high-quality professional contribution with appropriate means and materials. In this way Italy’s participation in the Alliance’s response reaction forces will be more efficient, within the framework of the current review of NATO forces. A more secure Euro-Mediterranean region 71. The Euro-Mediterranean area is the main area of national intervention. The achievement of a high degree of stability and democratic development in the countries that affect the Mediterranean is therefore a priority for our country. The Defence will contribute to the development of government policies designed to ensure this objective by ensuring targeted military cooperation with all nations in the area, by striving for better and deeper cooperation in order to build a broader context of security and stability over time. If specific circumstances make it necessary, the Defence must be prepared to take direct responsibility, in response to crisis situations and be prepared to intervene for peace and stability in accordance with the decisions of the international community. In some cases, Italy may also have to take on the responsibility of leading these operations, especially in those areas where Italy’s direct knowledge of the situations is greater due to historical, social or cultural proximity. - 38 -