* Likely to visit Qatar today, say sources
* Meloni first EU leader in region after war outbreak
* Trip aims to back Gulf partners, protect energy supplies
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni began her three-nation Gulf tour, which includes Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) yesterday. Meloni's first stop was in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Friday to boost "national energy security", a government source said, even as the Iran war intensifies in the region.
She was the first leader of a European Union (EU) or Nato country to visit the region since the war began on February 28.
The source said the premier would meet officials from Saudi Arabia, as well as from Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, though it was not immediately clear if she would also visit those two countries.
All three countries have been targeted by Iranian drone and missile strikes in retaliation for the US-Israeli bombardment of Iran.
"The aim is to strengthen relations with these countries and repeat Italy's support against Iranian attacks," the source said.
"The mission is also aimed at strengthening national energy security," the source said, adding that the Gulf was a "crucial source of oil and gas for Italy".
Italy is highly dependent on energy imports and has been eyeing rising energy prices with growing concern. Meloni is expected to meet with Qatar's energy minister and other key officials to discuss regional stability and coordinate a mediated resolution to the conflict.