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Admiral Stavridis pays first visit to Italy as SACEUR

30 Oct 2009
The Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), Admiral James Stavridis, visited Italy from 28 – 30 October during a round of visits he is carrying out to each NATO Country since he took over the position as SACEUR in June.

General Vicenzo Camporini and his wife welcomed Adm. and Mrs. Stavridis in the afternoon of 28 October at Ciampino International Airport.

After the conclusion of the Honour Guard Welcome Ceremony, Adm. Stavridis and SACEURs delegation were driven to Palazzo Caprara, Italian Defence General Staff Headquarters where they discussed common military interests and defence policy.

On 29 October Adm. Stavridis addressed a lecture at the NATO Public Affairs Conference held at NATO Defence College in Rome. Then he proceeded to visit the Army Transport and Material School, the Italian aircraft carrier Cavour, and the 4th Air Group at Grosseto Air Base where there was a demonstration by EuroFighter Typhoon aircrafts.

During the visit, SACEUR's delegation had also the opportunity to visit various historical sites, churches and museums in Rome enjoying the beauty of this unique city.

Before departing Adm. Stavridis expressed his gratitude to the people of Italy and his hosts for the overwhelming enthusiasm and openness of everyone who contributed to the success of this visit.

The Italian Honour Guard render honours to Adm. Stavridis at a welcome ceremony during his first visit to Italy as SACEUR.
Italy - Italian Chief of Defense General Vincenzo Camporini (left) welcomes the Supreme Allied Commander Europe and US European Command Commander, Adm. James Stavridis to Rome at the Ciampino International Airport on October 27, 2009.
Italy- The Supreme Allied Commander Europe and US European Command Commander, Adm. James Stavridis (right) and Italian Chief of Defense, Gen. Vincenzo Camprini talk during an office in Rome on October 27, 2009.Photo by the Italian Ministry of Defense.
Italy – The Supreme Allied Commander Europe and US European Command Commander, Adm. James Stavridis, attends a briefing at the Italian Defense General Staff Headquarters in Rome where he and the staff discussed common military interests and defense policies.