Mattarella: 'the link between Italy and the United States is a commitment to the defense of democracy'.

"A bond that sees us committed, in a convinced transatlantic perspective, to support and promote civil liberties and democratic principles, in a framework of international security and stability aimed at promoting economic development and social progress".

Thus the President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella in the year in which "the Italian Republic celebrates the 160th anniversary of the life of the unity of the country" and in which "also the 160 years of diplomatic relations between Italy and the United States of America occur. on April 13, 1861 ".

"In the year in which - writes the Head of State - the Italian Republic celebrates the 160th anniversary of the life of the country's unity, the 160 years of diplomatic relations between Italy and the United States of America, started on April 13 1861. We have traveled a long way together since then. Our deep friendship has been progressively strengthened in the last seventy-five years, taking root in the common adherence to the values ​​of freedom, peace, democracy. The constant and fruitful social and cultural exchanges between our peoples nourish, as well as the contribution provided by the large and industrious community of Italian origin in the US and by US citizens residing in our country ".

A bond, affirms Mattarella, which "sees us committed, in a convinced transatlantic perspective, to supporting and promoting civil liberties and democratic principles, within a framework of international security and stability aimed at promoting economic development and social progress. Global challenges unprecedented push us, once again, to unite will and energies at the national, international level and in multilateral fora that have demonstrated, over the decades, effective action ".

"It is my heartfelt hope that - concludes the President of the Republic - Washington and Rome, together also in responding to the challenges of this moment, will be able to constantly strengthen their closeness and increasingly develop their collaboration in support of the affirmation of common values. With this spirit, I am pleased to extend my warmest wishes for the future of relations between our two peoples and my deepest appreciation to those who, with their commitment, contribute to increasing the bond between Italy and the United States ". 

"Italy's commitment to NATO remains resolute": Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio reiterated this, speaking from Washington at the virtual celebrations for the 160th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Italy and the US.

"As allies we are resolute in our commitment to protect our collective security and to work together to maintain international peace and stability", he added, recalling the Italian contribution to security in the international arena, from Afghanistan to Libya, from Lebanon to the 'Iraq.