Meloni launches surprise Gulf tour to bolster Italy’s energy security

Rome — Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has embarked on a surprise diplomatic mission to the Gulf, becomes first Western leader to visit Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE since outbreak of regional conflict . Arriving in Jeddah on Friday as part of a two day tour that will also take her to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

The visit marks the first trip by a Western leader to the region since the escalation of conflict in the Middle East, underlining Italy’s growing diplomatic activism and strategic interest in the Gulf.

At the centre of the mission is energy. Government sources say the Prime Minister is seeking to consolidate Italy’s energy security by strengthening ties with key hydrocarbon producers, as Rome continues efforts to diversify supply routes and reduce vulnerability to geopolitical shocks.

Since taking office, Meloni has prioritised energy diplomacy, positioning Italy as a potential hub for gas flows into Europe. The Gulf states among the world’s leading exporters of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and oil are seen as crucial partners in that strategy.

Talks in Saudi Arabia are expected to focus not only on energy cooperation but also on broader economic and strategic ties. Riyadh has emerged as an increasingly influential actor in global energy markets, particularly through its role within OPEC+, and remains central to efforts to stabilise prices amid ongoing uncertainty.

In Doha, discussions are likely to centre on LNG supplies. Qatar is one of the world’s largest exporters of liquefied natural gas and has already played a significant role in helping European countries offset reduced Russian gas imports following the invasion of Ukraine.

The final leg of the trip will take Meloni to the United Arab Emirates, where economic cooperation, investment and renewable energy partnerships are expected to feature prominently on the agenda. The UAE has positioned itself as a leader in energy transition initiatives, making it a strategic partner for Italy’s longer term diversification goals.

The timing of the visit is significant. Ongoing instability in the Middle East has heightened concerns over supply disruptions and price volatility, prompting European governments to intensify diplomatic engagement with energy producing nations.

Italian officials describe the mission as part of a broader effort to secure “reliable and diversified” energy partnerships, while also reinforcing Rome’s geopolitical presence in a region of growing global importance.

Meloni’s Gulf tour reflects a wider shift in Italy’s foreign policy, combining economic pragmatism with strategic outreach as the government seeks to navigate an increasingly complex international landscape.

PS