The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) and the National Federation of Canadian Italian Business and Professional Associations (CIBPA-NF) today announced the establishment of a strategic partnership between the two leading organizations representing the Italian American and Italian Canadian communities.

The partnership will be formalized through the signing of a Protocol of Cooperation at the Italian Consulate in New York City this afternoon. NIAF Chairman Bob Carlucci and CIBPA-NF President Gianni Leonetti inked the agreement, committing their organizations to a series of joint initiatives over the next three years.

"We are thrilled to partner with CIBPA-NF to strengthen the relationship between the Italian American and Italian Canadian communities," said Carlucci. "By aligning our missions, we can amplify our collective voice and maximize the positive impact on those of Italian descent throughout North America."

Key areas of collaboration outlined in the Protocol include: • Supporting charitable causes aligned with preserving Italian cultural heritage • Facilitating the citizenship process for Italo-Americans and Italo-Canadians • Promoting "roots tourism" travel to Italy • Organizing academic and cultural exchanges between Italy, the U.S. and Canada • Cross-promoting the accomplishments of notable Italian Americans and Italian Canadians.

"CIBPA-NF is proud to join forces with NIAF to connect, empower and celebrate the achievements of Italians across North America," said Leonetti. "This partnership opens up invaluable opportunities for our members and stakeholders on both sides of the border."

Additional cooperation will include an annual student exchange through NIAF's Ambassador Peter F. Secchia Voyage of Discovery program, co-hosting of major events, collaborative marketing
campaigns, and mutual sharing of membership benefits where feasible.

The landmark agreement formalizes the natural a^inity between NIAF and CIBPA-NF while leveraging their respective networks to benefit the greater Italian diaspora in the U.S. and Canada. More information on upcoming partnership initiatives will be announced in the coming months.