This year marks the 160th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Italy and the United States, dating back to 1861, when Italians came together, propelled by the momentous awakening of the Risorgimento, under the banner of a single, unified Nation.

Over the past 75 years, our ties have grown ever closer and our friendship ever deeper. Our bonds are rooted in our shared values and in a common engagement to promote civil liberties and democratic principles, building on strong people-to-people ties, including millions of American women and men of Italian descent. Our societies are enriched by the numerous and dynamic exchanges between our people, businesses, civil society, and academia. Our economies maintain a strong and long-lasting relationship, spanning from the most traditional sectors to innovation, technology, scientific research and space.