ROME (ITALPRESS) – Italy and Germany must strengthen their role as key European leaders in driving strategic cooperation in the Mediterranean, placing Africa at the centre of their efforts, said to Italpress Kamel Ghribi, President of GKSD Investment Holding and Vice President of Gruppo San Donato, following a recent meeting with the German Ambassador to Italy, Hans-Dieter Lucas.
Speaking about the importance of bilateral relations between Italy and Germany, Ghribi highlighted the deep economic, cultural, and political ties that bind the two nations. “Today, more than ever, this friendship must evolve into a strategic partnership,” he said.
In a rapidly changing global landscape marked by instability and shifting power balances, Ghribi emphasized that Italy and Germany can serve as pillars of European stability. He pointed to the Mediterranean — and the broader Mediterranean region — as a critical arena where the challenges of security, energy, migration, and economic development converge.
“Europe must be a key player here, not a mere spectator,” Ghribi said. He praised Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s “Mattei Plan,” describing it as a courageous initiative to reposition Africa as a true partner rather than simply an aid recipient. “This is a cultural and political turning point of enormous significance,” he noted.
Looking ahead, Ghribi called for the creation of a trilateral partnership between Italy, Germany, and African nations, based on shared investments, cooperative security programs, and sustainable development projects. “Building this new framework of trust and stability is essential to strengthening Euro-African relations and tackling the root causes of today’s crises,” he said.
To this end, Ghribi signed a Letter of Intent on behalf of Gruppo San Donato and GKSD with Benedikt Franke, CEO of the Munich Security Conference, one of the world’s leading forums on international security.
He stressed the vital role of collaboration between profit and non-profit organizations within civil society to pave the way for government initiatives and long-term alliances. “Italy and Germany can lead the way toward a new, practical, inclusive, and forward-looking model of Euro-Mediterranean cooperation,” Ghribi concluded. “By joining forces, we can build a strategic bridge between Europe and Africa, grounded in shared values, common interests, and a vision for fair and sustainable growth.”
Photo: GKSD
