Secretary Michael R. Pompeo met yesterday with Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte in Rome. Secretary Pompeo and Prime Minister Conte reaffirmed the strong U.S.-Italy ties exemplified by continued cooperation in a wide range of areas. The Secretary emphasized our shared commitment to NATO, and urged Italy, along with all NATO Allies, to continue building on the progress made so far in increasing defense spending to meet funding commitments. The Secretary and the Prime Minister also discussed concerns surrounding emerging economic threats. Secretary Pompeo reiterated U.S. support for the timely completion of major energy projects that will advance Europe’s and Italy’s energy security.