Despite efforts in recent years, Italy has not yet set out the overall strategic goals of its development co-operation programme. To achieve this, it could build on its practice of approving triennial guidelines setting priorities for the development co-operation programme, as well as the participatory processes that were established to develop a common vision of its development co-operation. The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) are at the centre of this vision and Italy’s priorities. In partner countries Italy is struggling to concentrate on fewer sectors, where it can make a difference. Providing guidance on how to focus the aid programme where development co-operation is needed most and where it coincides with Italy’s comparative advantages would, therefore, be useful.