(Washington, June 5, 2024). The Embassy of Italy in Washington hosted a celebration for the 78th anniversary of the Italian Republic yesterday. Over 1,000 guests attended the event, representing U.S. institutions, the diplomatic community, the business and cultural sectors, Italian-American associations, journalists, and Italian citizens. Among the American guests were Attorney General Merrick Garland, Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Adrianne Todman, World Bank President Ajay Banga, Under Secretary for International Trade Marisa Lago, and Senior Counselor for Technology and Economic Growth Zoë Baird, both from the Department of Commerce, Director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Patrick Lechleitner from the Department of Homeland Security, other senior administration officials, and members of Congress.
In mentioning the significance of the occasion, the Ambassador of Italy, Mariangela Zappia, expressed gratitude to all representatives of the administration, Congress, and American society for their contribution to the extraordinary alliance, friendship, and partnership between Italy and the United States. The Ambassador emphasized “the work we do together in supporting and protecting the principles and values of our democracies and in promoting justice and prosperity for our people.” Following her wishes for Republic Day addressed to the Italian community, a video message was screened from Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Tajani, directed to Italian citizens for the occasion.
Attorney General Merrick Garland recalled his recent mission to Italy for the G7 Justice Ministerial, describing the Italy-US collaboration on justice and the bond between both peoples as “stronger than ever.” He also celebrated the “invaluable contribution of Italian-Americans to the success of the United States,” adding that “the partnership between our two countries is founded on a shared commitment to maintaining the rule of law.” He concluded by noting that “in the face of unprecedented challenges, the United States is fortunate to have Italy as a partner and friend.”
The cultural program of the event began with pieces from the most famous works of Giacomo Puccini, in homage to the centenary of his passing, performed by musicians from the Washington National Opera, Michael Baitzer and Kresley Figueroa, who also performed the national anthems. In the second part of the evening, Italian jazz artist Chiara Izzi, a resident of New York and winner of the Montreux Jazz Festival, performed.
In addition to offering top-quality Italian food and wine, the Embassy highlighted Italian innovation and technology. The humanoid robot “ergoCub,” developed by the Italian Institute of Technology (IIT) in collaboration with Italy’s National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work (INAIL) to improve workplace ergonomics and reduce health risks, helped welcome the guests. The IIT Scientific Director showcased its technological content and capabilities to selected guests and journalists, drawing particular interest from the Attorney General, among others. Also on display were a seat designed by Dallara for space-bound vehicles, satellite models from TASI and Argotec, aircraft and helicopter models from Leonardo, a Frecciarossa 1000 model from Hitachi Rail, a night vision device from Beretta, and a semi-automatic system for preparing chemotherapy substances produced by Loccioni. Guests also admired two Italian tricolors formed respectively by three Lamborghini cars and three Vespa scooters, one of which was electric. Tourism to Italy was also promoted, with special attention to turismo delle radici (tourism based on family roots), in collaboration with the Italian National Tourist Board (ENIT).
A total of 27 sponsors and various other Italian partners contributed to the overall success of the event.
