On the occasion of this Independence Day, I wish to convey heartfelt congratulations to you, Mr. President, and to all American citizens, on behalf of the Italian Republic and my own. Our countries are inextricably bound by an enduring and sincere friendship, rooted in a shared heritage of ideals, and enhanced by the contribution of a longstanding community of Italian origin in the United States, as well as by continuous and productive social and cultural exchanges.

This same strong friendship, the very foundation of our alliance, is enshrined in the transatlantic framework, and points clearly to our commitment to promoting international security and stability, the protection of human rights and the defense of a rules-based international order.