by H.E. Armando Varricchio

I am very pleased to extend my warm greetings to Italians, and Italian-Americans, in the United States on the occasion of Italy's National Day. I would like to thank all of our fellow citizens, our American friends of Italian origin and all those who recognize themselves - in their different ways - in Italy, for their outstanding and steadfast cooperation with the Embassy and our consular network. Today is the 70th anniversary of the birth of our Republic, founded on June 2, 1946, with Italy's constitutional referendum. That day, for the first time, women were able to vote in Italy's unprecedented universal suffrage.

The Italian Republic is founded on the core values of freedom, democracy, equality, respect for human rights and peace among nations. Values which we share deeply with the great country which hosts us, the United States. Italy and the US are friends - and allies. Together, we strive to promote a future based on freedom, prosperity and peace. We work closely on matters of international security, protecting human rights, promoting economic growth, safeguarding the environment and supporting the work of the United Nations.

This enduring alliance is enriched daily with culture, innovation, and high-tech. Our language is a powerful tool which promotes Italy's unparalleled cultural heritage and, at the same time, enhances our Country's natural propensity to creativity and inventiveness – in short, to the future.

The 70th anniversary of the Republic is a celebration for us all, and is another welcome opportunity for us to take pride in our own identity as "Italians" and "Italian-Americans".

Viva la Repubblica Italiana. Viva gli Stati Uniti d'America.