The year that is approaching its end was a difficult one, marked -especially in the last few months- by an escalation of violence that has deeply shaken our conscience and undermined our basic need for security.
The echo of the last terror attacks still lingers, and our grief for the many lives lost in those attacks has not waned: these feelings have strengthened our awareness that we must commit ourselves, deeply and for a long time to come, to defeat those who are trying to call into question the fundamental values of our society and our identity.
2015 has been a critical year as regards strengthening the necessary cooperation between countries, such as Italy, that firmly believe that peace and stability at global and regional level are objectives that we can actually meet.
2015 has been was a critical year for Defence too, because we have taken major decisions, have done what was needed and – thanks to the White Paper on International Security and Defence- have set what we deem is the right course to tackle an uncertain future with concrete prospects of success.
Today I want to take this opportunity to once again highlight the important role that you, the men and women of Defence, play in this ambitious project. Let me thank you, on behalf of the Italian people, for the incredible commitment that you carry out in Italy and in operations theatres abroad, to ensure our security and stability at global level through self-sacrifice and dedication.
As this year is approaching its end, more than 11,000 Italian military are engaged, not only in Italy but also in other 18 countries, in 25 missions, including Prima Parthica, the anti-ISIS mission.
In the next years we will have to face major challenges, but I’m sure that the big family of Defence, united by the oath to defend and serve our free, democratic and sovereign country, will provide its fundamental contribution to tackle and overcome all obstacles.
Finally, a compassionate thought for all those who have died while doing their duty, for their families, their colleagues and all the men and women in uniform who, by serving the Italian people day by day, bear witness to the human and military values of strength and virtue.
And our thought also goes to our two marines, Massimiliano Latorre e Salvatore Girone, who are showing that same strength and virtue day by day.
Men and women of the Defence,
let me give you, your families and your dear ones, and especially those who will celebrate the New Year away from home, my heartfelt wishes for a happy 2016.
My best wishes to all of you.
