The historical context surrounding Italy’s current approach is deeply rooted in the escalating tensions within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Concerns regarding the pace of military support for Ukraine, coupled with anxieties about the potential for protracted conflict and the future of transatlantic security commitments, have prompted a reassessment of Italy’s strategic priorities. Italy, historically a cornerstone of NATO, is now actively seeking to solidify alternative security arrangements, and economic partnerships are inextricably linked to these efforts. The 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine served as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in over-reliance on a single security bloc, accelerating the momentum towards strategic diversification. Prior to this, Italy’s security policy was largely defined by a staunch commitment to NATO, but the subsequent crisis demonstrated the necessity for adaptability.
Key stakeholders involved extend beyond the Canadian and Italian governments. The Italian Ministry of Defence, operating under the leadership of Minister Giorgio Meloni (now Prime Minister), is central to this evolving strategy. Their engagement with companies like Lowfoot – specializing in energy data analytics – signals a deliberate move towards securing technological dominance in key sectors. Furthermore, the inclusion of DataPeak and Bonetto Group, utilizing artificial intelligence, indicates a calculated effort to bolster Italy’s industrial base and reduce dependence on foreign technologies. The involvement of Tenaris, a significant Canadian steel producer, showcases a focus on securing access to critical materials, a concern amplified by supply chain disruptions. Academic institutions and think tanks, such as the Istituto Affari Internazionali (IAI), are also playing a crucial role in shaping Italy’s strategic thinking.
Data from the Observatory of Economic Complexity (OEC) demonstrates a consistent upward trend in Italian trade, increasing by 18.5% between 2016 and 2024, though recent fluctuations reflect global economic instability. While CETA provides a foundational framework for trade, its provisions alone are not sufficient to address Italy’s strategic concerns. The memorandum of understanding between the Canadian Hydrogen Association and the Italian Hydrogen Association is a clear demonstration of this. The rapid development of hydrogen technologies as a potential energy source is gaining significant traction, and Italy’s ambition to become a hub for this sector necessitates external collaboration.
Recent developments over the past six months reinforce this trend. The signing of the hydrogen memorandum in September 2025, following a six-month period of exploratory discussions, demonstrates a tangible commitment to fostering technological exchange. Similarly, the agreement between DataPeak and Bonetto Group, finalized in July 2025, signifies a proactive approach to mitigating risks associated with technological dependence. Moreover, Italy’s growing engagement with the United Arab Emirates – through security cooperation agreements – further illustrates this strategic pivot. These alliances are often built on a shared understanding of the risks posed by a resurgent Russia and a desire to maintain European security.
Looking ahead, the short-term (next six months) will likely see intensified collaboration between Canadian and Italian businesses in the defence and security sectors, particularly in areas like cybersecurity and unmanned systems. The completion of the hydrogen agreement will be closely monitored, with potential pilot projects demonstrating the viability of this technology. Longer-term (5-10 years), Italy’s strategic realignment could lead to a more prominent role in shaping European security policy, potentially impacting the future trajectory of NATO and the EU. The development of a robust European defense industry, facilitated by partnerships like the one being fostered with Canada, will be paramount. A possible outcome involves Italy serving as a key bridge between the EU’s security concerns and the broader global geopolitical landscape.
The Canadian trade mission serves as a microcosm of a larger, more profound shift. Italy’s actions reflect a fundamental reassessment of its security interests and a strategic determination to forge a more independent path in an increasingly uncertain world. The momentum built during this mission—specifically regarding technological diversification—will undoubtedly exert influence on European security deliberations for years to come.