area, such as mass migration, illegal trafficking and international terrorism. There is also concern about the development and spread of pandemics, even if the current national system of prevention and control has proven to be effective. In this case the active involvement of Italy in international humanitarian missions or missions which contribute to stabilising the area could also be necessary. c. The Horn of Africa The Horn of Africa is traditionally an area of national presence, being facilitated and stimulated by the cultural proximity of local populations with our country. Also the strategic position of the area is a crossroads for maritime trade flows to and from the Mediterranean region. The political and social stability of the area and the creation of better living conditions for the population are of significant relevance, albeit indirectly, for the security of the Mediterranean region, preventing the resurgence of phenomena such as piracy, reducing emigration to Europe and preventing the area from becoming fertile ground for the expansion of extremist religious terrorist groups. In the same way as the Sahel, this is an area in which Italy could be actively involved for humanitarian missions or missions contributing to the stabilization of the area. d. The Persian Gulf region The region of the countries on the Persian Gulf is of particular strategic importance, since a significant part of world production and trade of oil products still occurs in this area. Furthermore, some countries are also active and important actors in the dynamics that could affect the stability of the Mediterranean region and are important partners for our country. For these reasons there is national and international interest in the stability of the area and in maintaining the trade flows that are developed within it. - 30 -