Italian National Unity and Armed Forces Day was celebrated on the evening of November 7 the Embassy of Italy in Washington.
“Our Armed Forces continue to operate in distant lands on numerous missions, highlighting through their commitment our country’s vocation to uphold and preserve respect for international law,” said Ambassador Mariangela Zappia, recalling President Mattarella’s message from November 4th and emphasizing Italy’s role as a global security provider with over 12,000 soldiers engaged in peace operations worldwide.
Referring to the words of the Italian Prime Minister, who spoke of Italy and the United States as “sister nations, bound by an unwavering alliance, common values, and a historic friendship,” Ambassador Zappia expressed gratitude to President Biden and his entire administration for the excellent bilateral collaboration across all sectors. She joined the Italian Government’s highest officials in congratulating President-elect Donald J. Trump, stating her confidence that the strong ties between Italy and the United States will continue to deepen, particularly in the field of security and defense.
Following Ambassador Zappia, Defense Attaché Gen. Davide Marzinotto spoke, along with Acting Under Secretary of the Navy, Thomas Mancinelli, representing the U.S. Administration. Mancinelli thanked Italy for the excellent collaboration between Italy and the United States in the defense sector. The celebrations were also attended by senior representatives from the National Security Council, the U.S. Department of State and Department of Defense, as well as members of the U.S. Armed Forces, the diplomatic corps, and the Italian community.
