I had the honour of paying an official visit to the Aerospace Medicine Institute in Milan, a centre of excellence representing a key reference point for training, medical assessment, and operational readiness in the fields of military aviation and space navigation.

During my visit, I was warmly welcomed by Colonel Marco Lastilla, Lieutenant Colonel Stivali, and First Lieutenant Pezzella, to whom I extend my sincere appreciation for their professionalism, dedication, and hospitality.

The Aerospace Medicine Institute stands not only as a strategic facility supporting the selection and preparation of personnel involved in aviation and space missions, but also as a leading institution at the forefront of advanced medical research across a wide range of pathologies, contributing significantly to both national and international scientific progress.

I was particularly pleased to have the opportunity to visit the Institute accompanied by its Director, whose guidance allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the Institute’s activities, capabilities, and important role within the Italian defence and research framework.

This visit further confirms the strong and constructive relationship that I maintain, in my capacity as Consul General of the Republic of Lithuania in Milan — a proud NATO member state — with the Italian military institutions, and reflects the shared commitment of our countries to cooperation, security, innovation, and scientific advancement.