ELNET, the leading organization dedicated to strengthening relations between Israel and Europe, is excited to announce the opening of its new office in Italy. Italy is one of the most important partners for Israel on the continent, and with the third largest economy in the EU, it wields substantial influence over Europe’s economic, political, and security dynamics.
Shared Strategic Interests
Israel and Italy share many common strategic interests, such as:
- Energy and diversification
- Maritime security and border control
- Cybersecurity and counter terrorism
- Science, technology, and innovation
Regional Opportunities
With both countries situated along the Mediterranean, Israel and Italy hold strategic importance as a gateway to Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. This positions them as critical players not only for addressing shared challenges, but also for forging new partnerships, notably between Europe, Israel, and Arab countries in the context of the Abraham Accords.
Additionally, given the close proximity to Greece and Cyprus, two primary players in Europe’s offshore gas industry, further opportunity presents itself for strengthening the energy cooperation among the countries and thereby enhancing regional stability and ushering in greater prosperity. ELNET-Italy will serve as a regional hub to these countries in addition to Italy, deepening their relations with Israel and expanding regional collaboration.
Italy’s Commitment to Israel
Under President Meloni’s leadership, Italy has taken on even greater diplomatic prominence, including as signatory to the Joint Statement in support of Israel issued by the White House together with France, Germany, and the UK, which strongly condemned the Hamas massacre of October 7th. Parting with past voting patterns, Italy staunchly supports Israel in international forums, including by voting against the biased UN vote requesting an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against Israel. Such actions demonstrate Italy’s unwavering commitment to Israel.
ELNET-Italy’s New CEO Roberta Anati
Against this backdrop, and following years of ELNET programs involving Italy, we are confident that now is the time to expand ELNET’s work to a fully operating affiliate on the ground.
Leading ELNET-Italy into this new chapter, ELNET has appointed Roberta Anati as CEO. Roberta has played a key role in building economic relations between Israel and Italy since 1992, including by launching the Israel-Italy Trade Commission and serving as its Deputy Director, as well as Vice President of the Israel-Italy Chamber of Commerce. She has consulted to the Italian Embassy, as well as former Head of the Crisis Unity. Roberta is also an award-winning business intelligence and innovation leader and a sought-after thought leader on emerging technology, ecosystems and cultural exchanges between countries. We congratulate Roberta on joining the ELNET family and wish her much success in her new role!