Italy is enhancing its geopolitical presence by focusing on critical infrastructure projects amidst global tensions and disruptions in supply chains. Ambassador Pasquale Salzano, President of Simest and Director of European and International Affairs at Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP), emphasized Italy’s efforts in a recent article in Longitude magazine.
The initiatives, led by Simest—a part of CDP Group supporting Italian companies abroad—are aimed at bolstering supply chain resilience, particularly in renewable energy and advanced semiconductors. Italy leverages its strategic geographical position to strengthen connectivity and economic competitiveness.
The COVID-19 pandemic, Ukraine conflict, and geopolitical tensions have underscored global trade vulnerabilities, highlighting the fragility of critical shipping routes like the Bab-el-Mandeb and Suez Canal. In response, Italy and other nations are adopting strategies such as reshoring and near-shoring to diversify trade and align with geopolitically stable partners.
Ambassador Salzano, a seasoned diplomat and former Ambassador to Qatar, plays a pivotal role in Italy’s foreign policy and economic strategies. His leadership includes initiatives like the Mattei Plan for Africa, focusing on strategic investments to enhance ties between Europe and Africa.
Italy’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure investment and strong commercial partnerships with regions like Africa supports global value chain stability and economic growth. Salzano referenced global initiatives like the European Union’s Global Gateway, the US Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and the G7’s Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGII), demonstrating Italy’s proactive stance in improving global connectivity.
As holder of the G7 Presidency, Italy promotes projects that enhance regional integration and bolster Mediterranean ports. Italian ports in the Mediterranean and Balkans are increasingly pivotal in global trade, capitalizing on Italy’s logistical advantages.
According to Salzano, Italy’s leadership within the G7 and initiatives like the Mattei Plan position the country to contribute significantly to shaping a more resilient international economic order.
