Brussels-Rome: Europe and the Arabs

In a first-of-its-kind participation from NATO partner countries, the NATO Critical Maritime Infrastructure (CUI) Network met on November 20 and 21, 2025, in Rome, Italy, to foster a synergy of perspectives between civilian and military actors to enhance the security of this critical underwater infrastructure. According to a statement issued by NATO Headquarters in Brussels, "Experts from NATO Headquarters and Allied countries were joined by industry stakeholders, representatives from the European Union, and, for the first time, NATO partner countries."

The statement added, "With the rise of hybrid threats across Europe, discussions focused on best practices for securing critical maritime infrastructure in the Mediterranean region and beyond. The deployment of sensor and surveillance technologies, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), to enhance security around this growing and vital infrastructure was a key topic of discussion. Participants also visited the Italian Navy's Critical Maritime Infrastructure Monitoring Centre to learn how civilian and military stakeholders collaborate to monitor and respond quickly to suspicious activities near critical maritime infrastructure." “A comprehensive approach to security is vital for the Alliance. The Mediterranean region is of paramount importance,” said Ambassador Jan-Charles Ellermann Kingombe, NATO Assistant Secretary General for Cyber ​​and Digital Transformation and Special Coordinator for Hybrid Threats. He noted the interconnectedness of threats and challenges, adding, “We are here to deepen our exchanges and broaden our cooperation across the civilian-military, public-private, and public sectors.”

NATO’s CUI Network was established in February 2024 to leverage NATO as a platform for improved information sharing and coordination. Following the disruption to underwater infrastructure in the Baltic Sea in December 2024, NATO launched Operation Baltic Watch, a multi-domain activity designed to enhance the Alliance’s military presence and improve Allies’ ability to respond to destabilizing activities.