Hello dear friends!
I extend my warm greetings to Minister Tajani, Secretary General Guariglia, and all Heads of Mission who are entrusted with the important task of leading Italy’s diplomatic network around the world. Your role is truly unique and carries a dual responsibility – representing your homeland on the mission assigned to you and being the voice of an entire community, a history, an identity, and a people.
As the great patriot Giuseppe Mazzini once said, the homeland is the family of the heart. Just like in a family, we may have our disagreements and frustrations, but ultimately, it is where we feel most at home. Italy is our family, our roots.
In every family, challenges arise that need to be addressed. We must make choices and decisions, knowing that we may not always get it right. However, our mission demands that we have the courage to face obstacles head-on and strive to find solutions.
While the government provides political guidelines, it is your task to give substance to those guidelines with boldness, determination, and passion. Our fellow compatriots, both at home and abroad, expect us to be innovative and proactive in our approach, and it is our duty to meet those expectations.
These are crucial times, with Italy and Europe facing complex challenges amidst global conflict and instability. Our support for Ukraine, efforts in the Middle East, and engagements at the European Council all play a pivotal role in shaping our collective future.
The Mattei Plan for Africa represents a new approach to international relations, focusing on cooperation, mutual respect, and shared prosperity. This approach has been well-received by our African partners, and we are committed to furthering this collaboration in the years to come.
The Italian G7 Presidency has been instrumental in showcasing our commitment to open dialogue, shared development, and global growth. As we look towards 2025, we aim to strengthen ties with the Global South and continue building a more inclusive and interconnected world.
It is through our collective efforts that we can overcome challenges, foster understanding, and build a brighter future for all. Let us continue on this path of cooperation and solidarity, working towards a more peaceful and prosperous world.
Expanding Horizons: Italy’s Geopolitical Reach in 2025
Over the past couple of years, Italy has not only strengthened its traditional alliances but has also initiated dialogues with new partners, enriching its geopolitical and geo-economic influence. This strategic move has provided Italy with a unique advantage, allowing it to broaden its reach and diversify its global connections.
In addition to forging new ties with Africa and India, Italy aims to reinvigorate its historical and cultural relationship with Latin America in the year 2025. The deep-rooted connections between Italy, Europe, and Latin America are further strengthened by the significant presence of Italian expatriates and descendants in the region. To this end, Italy is actively working on developing new Action Plans with Argentina and Brazil to enhance their strategic partnerships.
The upcoming EU-Western Balkans summit holds significance as Italy and its European counterparts strive to prioritize the accession of Western Balkan nations into the European Union. This endeavor underscores the commitment towards achieving a unified Europe, bringing together nations that have long been geographically and culturally intertwined.
As we navigate through a year of unprecedented change and uncertainty, Italy is poised to rise to the challenges that lie ahead. It is imperative for Italy to demonstrate its capability in fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted by history, not only to its citizens but also to Italians worldwide and future generations.
Each individual action taken, no matter how small, has the potential to make a significant impact. By confronting challenges head-on, advancing progressively, and upholding moral principles, we can collectively contribute to the greater good. Italy is prepared to play its part, and we trust that our citizens will do the same.
Thank you for your support and dedication.
[Courtesy translation]